final sea scoping report_overlay env sensitivities

8/11/2019 Final SEA Scoping Report_overlay Env Sensitivities

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STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTALASSESSMENT

SCOPING REPORT

FOR THE

LONGFORD COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN2015-2021


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SEA Scoping Reportfor the Longford County Development Plan 2015-2021

Table of Contents

Section 1 Introduction and Background ................................................................ 1

1.1 Introduction and Terms of Reference .................................................................................. 11.2 Legislative Context ............................................................................................................. 11.3 Content of the Draft County Development Plan .................................................................... 11.4 Consultations ..................................................................................................................... 11.5 What happens next? ........................................................................................................... 5

Section 2 Actions for SEA Best Practice ................................................................. 6

Section 3 Monitoring Review and State of the Environment ................................. 9

3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 93.2 Monitoring Review .............................................................................................................. 93.3 State of the Environment .................................................................................................. 16

Section 4

Key Scoping Issues .............................................................................. 33

4.1

Introduction and Overview ................................................................................................ 33

4.2 Guidelines and Legislation ................................................................................................. 334.3 Potential Significant Effects ............................................................................................... 344.4 Appropriate Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment ........................................................... 354.5 Alternatives ...................................................................................................................... 354.6 Relationship with other plans and programmes .................................................................. 35

Appendix I: List of Suggested Provisions to be integrated into the Draft Plan 36


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Section 1 Introduction and Background

1.1 Introduction and Terms of Reference

Longford County Council intends to review the Longford County Development Plan (CDP) 2009-2015 asvaried and prepare and make a new CDP 2015-2021 under Sections 11 and 12 of the Planning andDevelopment Acts 2000-2010.

As the CDP covers an area the population of which exceeds 10,000 persons, it has been determined thatthe Planning and Development (SEA) Regulations (as amended) require SEA to be undertaken. It isintended that this Scoping Report will help communicate and define the scope of the environmentalissues which are to be dealt with by the SEA together with the level of detail to which it is intended toaddress these issues.

1.2 Legislative Context

Directive 2001/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of Ministers, of 27 June 2001, on theAssessment of the Effects of Certain Plans and Programmes on the Environment, referred to hereafter asthe SEA Directive, introduced the requirement that SEA be carried out on plans and programmes whichare prepared for a number of sectors, including land use planning.

The SEA Directive was transposed into Irish Law through the European Communities (EnvironmentalAssessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004 (Statutory Instrument Number (SI No.435 of 2004) and the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004(SI No. 436 of 2004). Both sets of Regulations became operational on 21 July 2004. The Regulations

have been amended by the European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and


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of submissions received to become this, final, SEA Scoping Report. Environmental authorities wereinformed that submissions, or parts of submissions, made on the Appropriate Assessment (AA) or

Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) which are being undertaken alongside the SEA and plan-preparation processes would also be taken into account.

Submissions were made by Leitrim County Council, the Environmental Protection Agency and theDepartment of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht which are detailed and responded to below. Updates tothe original version of this report, which was sent to the authorities with the SEA scoping notices, areidentified where relevant. Acknowledgement letters were received from Roscommon County Council andthe Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and these do not require consideration by thisreport.

1.4.2 Leitrim County Council

The issues raised by the Leitrim County Council submission and responses to these issues are detailed onTable 1.1 below.

No. Issue Raised SEA/AA/SFRA Response

1. In general terms it is considered

that the Draft Scoping Reporthighlights the main environmentalissues to be addressed in themaking of the Plan and in thisregard it is considered satisfactory.

This is noted.

2. Some of the areas that might beconsidered in more detail in theScoping Report include:

1. Methodology to be usedin formulating the SEA;

2. The consideration of

relevant plans and

The purpose of the SEA Scoping Report is to help communicate and define thescope of the environmental issues which are to be dealt with by the SEA togetherwith the level of detail to which it is intended to address these issues, as per theSEA Guidelines2.

1. Section 2 of this report provides details Actions for SEA Best Practice that will be

followed by the SEA Further details on the SEA methodology will be provided in the


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1.4.3 Environmental Protection Agency

The issues raised by the Environmental Protection Agency submission and responses to these issues aredetailed below.


1. You are referred to the Agencys previoussubmission, dated the 1stMay which should betaken into account at this time also. Further tothe previous submission, a number ofadditional comments are made below which

should be taken into consideration.

Issues raised in the EPAs previous submission dated 1st May weretaken into account in the original version of this report, which was sentto the environmental authorities with the SEA scoping notices. Allsubmissions made by the EPA and environmental authorities will betaken into account beyond the finalisation of this document and

throughout the SEA, SFRA and AA processes.2. The inclusion of Section 3.3.9 Overlay Mapping

of Environmental Sensitivities is acknowledgedas it clearly shows which areas of the Countyhave overlapping environmental vulnerabilities.It should be ensured that the Plan providesspecific policies/objectives and mitigationmeasures which are robust enough to protectthese sensitivities.

The SEA will seek to ensure that the Plan contributes towards theprotection of environmental sensitivities within the County.

3. In Section 4 Key Scoping Issues, in response tothe scoping question regarding additional

scoping issues to be considered in the SEA,there would be merits in describing the existinggreen infrastructure linkages/corridor networkwithin the County. The Plan should provide forthe protection and where possible theenhancement of the key ecological corridors inconsultation with the NPWS, Inland FisheriesIreland (IFI) and other stakeholders.

Green infrastructure is the subject of a suggested preliminarymitigation measure (entitled Green Infrastructure) included in

Appendix I of this report. This measure has been updated to takeaccount of stakeholder consultation as a result of the EPA submission.

Section 4 Key Scoping Issues of this report refers to the informationwhich is included in Section 3 of this report, which includes adescription of the State of the Environment within the County. As aresult of, inter alia, this submission, additional text has been added toSection 3 concerning green infrastructure.

4. Section 4.5 Alternatives describes somepotential SEA Alternatives to be consideredduring the preparation of the SEA. Theproposed Option 1 Ad Hoc Market Driven

Section 4.5 of this report has been updated as a result of thissubmission to provide clarity.


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9. Updated SEA Regulations / CircularAmending SEA Regulations were signed intoIrish law on 3rd May 2011, amending the

original SEA Regulations, and should bereferenced and integrated into the Plan andSEA process as appropriate:

Planning and Development (StrategicEnvironmental Assessment)(Amendment) Regulations 2011, (S.I.No. 201 of 2011), amending thePlanning and Development (StrategicEnvironmental Assessment)Regulations 2004 (S.I. No. 436 of2004).

The DoECLG Circular (PSSP 6/2011) FurtherTransposition of the EU Directive 2001/42/ECon Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)which should also be referred to and integratedinto the Plan.

European Communities (Birds and NaturalHabitats) Regulations 2011The requirements of the EuropeanCommunities (Birds and Natural Habitats)Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011),should also be taken into account inimplementing the Plan.

Environmental AuthoritiesUnder the SEA Regulations (S.I. No. 436 of2004), as amended by S.I. No. 201 of 2011notice should be given to the following:

The Environmental Protection Agency

The Minister for the Environment

The SEA (and AA and SFRA) will ensure compliance with the followinglegislation:

The SEA Directive and the Habitats and Birds Directives;

The Planning and Development (Strategic EnvironmentalAssessment) Regulations 2004 (S.I. No. 436 of 2004);

The Planning and Development (Strategic EnvironmentalAssessment) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 201of 2011);

The Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2011; and, The European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats)

Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011).

In addition to complying with the legislation, the processes will beundertaken taking into account the following guidance:

Implementation of SEA Directive (2001/42/EC): Guidelinesfor Regional Authorities and Planning Authorities.Department of the Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment, 2004.

Further Transposition of the EU Directive 2001/42/EC onStrategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). DECLG Circular(PSSP 6/2011).

Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland.Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of the

Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2009, Assessment of plans and projects significantly affectingNatura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on theprovisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive92/43/EEC, European Commission Environment DG, 2000,and;

Managing Natura 2000 sites: The Provisions of Article 6 ofthe Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC: European Commission,2000

Guidance on Integrating Climate Change and Biodiversityinto Strategic Environmental Assessment, European

Commission 2013


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1.4.4 Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

The issues raised by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht submission and responses tothese issues are detailed below.


1. The following corrections should be notedunder Section 3.3 State of the Environment,Subsection 3.3.1 The candidate cSACs are now fullydesignated SACs (third paragraph)

The Department is now Arts Heritage andGaeltacht for NPWS (third paragraph) NHAs natural heritage sites were transposedinto statutory instruments and thereforedesignated in 2005 Sites for Longfordincluding: Aghnamona bog NHA 422,Cloonageeher Bog NHA, 1423, Forthill BopgNHA 1448, Lough Kinale and Derragh Lough985, Mount Jessop Bog NHA 1450 and RinnRiver NHA 691 Figure 3.2 will also need to have the correct

designations updated.

The report has been revised to take account of the issues raised in thissubmission.

Table 1.3 Environmental Protection Agency Submission and Response

1.5 What happens next?

Taking into account the content of this SEA Scoping Report and continuous scoping of the SEA, an SEA

Environmental Report will be prepared and will accompany the Draft CDP on public display


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Section 2Actions for SEA Best Practice

In order to contribute towards achieving SEA Best Practice for the CDP SEA, SEA Strengths/Best PracticeExamplesand Limits of SEA Effectivenessas identified in the Environmental Protection Agencys Reviewof Effectiveness of SEA in Ireland 2012 - Key Findings and Recommendations Report (2012) wereexamined.

The output of this examination is a list of actions for the CDP SEA as detailed on Table 2.1 below.Progress on achieving the actions on this list will be updated throughout the SEA process and the

updated list will be included in both the SEA Environmental Report that is placed on display alongside theDraft Plan and the SEA Statement which is produced at the end of the process.

SEA Stage No. Actions Status/ Comments

1. Influence ofSEA,Integrationwith Plan-

Making

1a Ensure that the SEA process begins early in orderto allow issues to be identified and appropriatelyaddressed early in the plan-making process.

Achieved. SEA Process begun April2013.

1b Maximise buy-in to the SEA process from senior

managers and decision-makers by communicating,at an early stage, the role and importance of SEAand integrating into the Plan preparation andmaking process.

- Planning Team & Director of

Services involved.- Presentation to Members early inthe process

1c The SEA process should be highly integrated withboth the plan-making process and the AA andSFRA processes.

Ongoing - this has begun with theSEA Scoping Report and will becontinued throughout process.

- Plan: Gap analysis ofenvironmental provisions of existing

plan undertaken


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2. Scoping(continued) 2d Make reference as appropriate to the potential forcumulative/ in combination effects (taking intoaccount other relevant plans, programmes andprojects).

Done - see Section 4.1 andAppendix I.

2e Include Environmental Sensitivity Mapping in thescoping report.

Done - seeSection 3 of this report.

2f Use websites to display scoping documents. Final report to be placed onwebsite.

3. ExistingEnvironment

3a Take account of existing environment by makingchanges to the plan where necessary.

Consider after Scoping

3b Update Environmental Sensitivity Mapping fromcurrent SEA.


3c Identify gaps in baseline data. Consider after Scoping

4. PlanDescription &Review ofOther PlansLegislation

4a Update environmental protection objectives fromcurrent SEA.


4b Update summary of other key plans/programmesand how they will be incorporated into the plan.


5. Objectives,

Indicators andTargets

5a Review current objectives, indicators and targets

and identify whether any additions/modificationsare required.


5b Ensure good linkages between objectives,indicators and targets are retained.


5c Link indicators to existing/proposed data sources. Consider after Scoping

6. Alternatives 6a Review and update alternatives from the currentSEA.


7. LikelySignificantEffects

7a Use Environmental Sensitivity Mapping whererelevant for assessing significant effects.


7b Use environmental objectives in order to assess

plan policies and objecti es and assist in



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10.Consultationon Draft PlanandEnvironmentalReport

10a Take into account SEA related feedback fromsubmissions and in particular those fromenvironmental or other statutory authorities.


11.Amendmentsto the PlanFollowing

Integration

11a Ensure that material alterations are screened interms of SEA and AA and that full SEA and AA areundertaken where relevant.


12. SEAStatement

12a Ensure transparency of SEA process by ensuringthat SEA Statement is correctly prepared.


12b Include information summarising:i. how environmental considerations have

been integrated into the Plan,ii. how the SEA Environmental Report and

submissions and observations on the SEAhave been taken into account during thepreparation of the Plan

iii.

the reasons for choosing the Plan, asadopted, in the light of the otherreasonable alternatives dealt with; and

iv. monitoring measures.


13. Post-PlanAdoptionIncludingMonitoring

Ensure monitoring reports are prepared duringimplementation of the Plan in order to determinewhether SEA is having the desired outcomes ofenvironmental protection, and whetherintervention is required due to thresholds having

b d d



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Section 3 Monitoring Review and State of theEnvironment

3.1 Introduction

This section provides a monitoring review which details available information of changes in indicatorswhich were identified as part of previous SEAs in the county.

Also provided are details of the state of the environment in the county, including maps of individual

environmental components, environmental sensitivity mapping and a brief description under the topicsidentified by the SEA Directive and transposing regulations.

3.2 Monitoring Review

SEAs have been undertaken for both the preparation of the Longford CDP 2009-2015 and for theProposed Variation No. 1 to the Longford CDP 2009-2015.

Table 3.1 presents the indicators relating to potential impacts identified in each of these SEAs and, whererelevant and possible, both a measurement for each indicator in/close to 2009 and a currentmeasurement of these indicators are provided. Also identified on the table are targets to accompany theindicators which have been arrived at with regard to various environmental protection legislation andsources and monitoring frequency for the indicators.

The sampling and publication timeframes for a number of the sources for the indicators are offrequencies that limit the description of change in the environment that may have occurred over thecurrent Plan timeframe to date.


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o Areas of specified flood risk across the County have not been identified however allpermissions have been granted in compliance with The Planning System and Flood RiskManagement Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

Material Assets

o All new developments which have been granted permission over the lifetime of the CDPhave been - or will be prior to operation - connected to and adequately and appropriatelyserved by waste water treatment.

o With regard to drinking water quality between 2009 and 2011, Microbial ComplianceLevels have slightly increased while Chemical Compliance Levels have slightly decreased.The number of entries on the RAL has decreased from 2 in 2009 to 1 in Q4 of 2012.

o

The preparation of a Water Services Strategic Plan is to be investigated once this isrequired to be prepared by legislation.

o Between 2009 and 2011 the total collected and brought household wastehas decreasedwhile the total packaging recovered by self-complying packagers has increased.

Air and Climatic Factors

o Figures from CSO show an overall decrease of 2.9% of the entire population aged 5years and over travelling to work by public transport or non-mechanical means in the

County between 2006 and 2011.

Cultural Heritage

o All entries to the Record of Monuments and Places have been protected frominappropriate development granted permission under the current CDP.

o All entries to the Record of Protected Structures have been protected from inappropriatedevelopment granted permission under the current CDP.


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CAAS for Longford County Council 11

Table 3.1 Selected Indicators, Targets and Monitoring Sources

EnvironmentalComponent

Selected Indicator(s) Selected Target(s) Source Monitoring Frequency Measure c. 2009 Current Measure 2013

Biodiversity,Flora and Fauna

B1: Conservation status ofhabitats and species asassessed under Article 17 of the

Habitats Directive

B1: Maintenance of favourableconservation status for allhabitats and species protected

under national and internationallegislation to be unaffected byimplementation of the CDP4

a) Department of Arts,Heritage and theGaeltacht report of the

implementation of themeasures contained inthe Habitats Directive- as required by Article17 of the Directiveb) NPWS (no responseto SEA Scoping).

a) Every 6 yearsb) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scoping

for CDP 2015-21)

No conflicts withconservation status ofhabitats and species

under Article 17identified.

No conflicts with conservationstatus of habitats and speciesunder Article 17 identified.

B2: Percentage loss offunctional connectivity withoutremediation resulting fromdevelopment provided for bythe County Development Plan

B2: No significant ecologicalnetworks or parts thereof whichprovide functional connectivity tobe lost without remediationresulting from developmentprovided for by the CDP

a) CORINE mappingresurvey b)DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions granted

a) Every 6 years. Thesampling and publicationtimeframes for thisinformation source is of afrequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plantimeframe to date.b) At monitoring evaluation

(1st evaluation is SEA Scoping

for CDP 2015-21)

Not applicable,indicator is monitoringnew effects arisingfrom implementationof Plan from 2009

CORINE Mapping 2012 is notdue to be published until20145.

No significant ecologicalnetworks or parts thereofwhich provide functionalconnectivity have beenidentified as being lost withoutremediation resulting from

development provided for by

the CDPB3i: Number of significantimpacts on relevant habitats,species, environmental featuresor other sustaining resources inWildlife Sites6 resulting fromdevelopment provided for bythe CDP

B3i: Avoid significantimpacts on relevant habitats,species, environmental featuresor other sustaining resources inWildlife Sites resulting fromdevelopment provided for by theCDP

a) CORINE mappingresurvey b)DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions grantedc) NPWS (no responseto SEA Scoping).

a) Every 6 yearsb) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scopingfor CDP 2015-21)c) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scopingfor CDP 2015-21)


CORINE Mapping 2012 is notdue to be published until20147.

No significant impacts onrelevant habitats, species,environmental features orother sustaining resources inWildlife Sites resulting fromdevelopment provided for bythe CDP have been identified

4Except as provided for in Section 6(4) of the Habitats Directive, viz. There must be:(a) no alternative solution available;(b) imperative reasons of overriding public interest for the plan to proceed; and(c) adequate compensatory measures in place.5CORINE land cover data is available for both 2000 and 2006. The most common land cover change between 2000 and 2006 was from transitional woodland scrub to coniferous forests.6The Planning and Development Act 2010 defines a wildlife site as: (a) an area proposed as a natural heritage area and the subject of a notice made under section 16(1) of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, (b) anarea designated as or proposed to be designated as a natural heritage area by a natural heritage area order made under section 18 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, (c) a nature reserve established or proposedto be established under an establishment order made under section 15 (amended by section 26 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000) of the Wildlife Act 1976, (d) a nature reserve recognised or proposed to berecognised under a recognition 5 order made under section 16 (amended by section 27 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000) of the Wildlife Act 1976, or (e) a refuge for fauna or flora designated 10 or proposed to bedesignated under a designation order made under section 17 (amended by section 28 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000) of the Wildlife Act 1976.7CORINE land cover data is available for both 2000 and 2006. The most common land cover change between 2000 and 2006 was from transitional woodland scrub to coniferous forests.


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B3ii: Number of significantimpacts on the protection ofspecies listed on Schedule 5 ofthe Wildlife Act 1976 resultingfrom development provided forby the CDP

B3ii: No significant impactson the protection of specieslisted on Schedule 5 of theWildlife Act 1976

a) CORINE mappingresurvey b)DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions grantedc) NPWS (no responseto SEA Scoping).

a) Every 6 yearsb) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scopingfor CDP 2015-21)c) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scopingfor CDP 2015-21)


No significant impacts on theprotection of species listed onSchedule 5 of the Wildlife Act1976 resulting fromdevelopment provided for bythe CDP have been identified

B4: Population of the County

involved in land management

B4: Sustain the population of the

County involved in landmanagement

Central Statistics

Office

2006, 2011, next census

possibly 2016

The sampling and publicationtimeframes for thisinformation source is of afrequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plantimeframe to date.

Figures from CSO

show overall increase(+0.8% of thespecified population)in the populationinvolved in landmanagement in theCounty between 2006and 2011 - see Table3.2.

Figures from CSO show overall

increase (+0.8% of thespecified population) in thepopulation involved in landmanagement in the Countybetween 2006 and 2011 - seeTable 3.2.

Population andHuman Health

PHH1: Occurrence (any) of aspatially concentrateddeterioration in human healtharising from environmentalfactors as identified by the

Health Service Executive andEnvironmental ProtectionAgency

PHH1: No spatial concentrationsof health problems arising fromenvironmental factors as a resultof implementing the CDP

The Council andHealth ServiceExecutive (no HSEresponse to query).

At monitoring evaluation (1stevaluation is SEA Scoping forCDP 2015-21)


No spatial concentrations ofhealth problems arising fromenvironmental factors as aresult of implementing theCDP identified

PHH2: Change in population PHH2: Any changes should be incompliance with the provisions ofthe CDP

a) Longford CountyCouncilb) CSO

a) At monitoring evaluation(1st evaluation is SEA Scopingfor CDP 2015-21)b) 2006, 2011, next censuspossibly 2016


Based on available data fromthe CSO and the Core StrategyVariation to the 2009 CDP,population changes are incompliance with the provisionsof the current CDP

Soil S1: Area of brownfield landsdeveloped in the County overthe lifespan of the DevelopmentPlan

S1: Arising from increased levelsof brownfield development, areduced availability of brownfieldland in the County (subject toavailability on the open market,the demand for such land andthe ability for such lands to besustainably re-used) at the endof the CDPs lifespan

DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions granted



No significant brownfield landshave been developed over thelifetime of the current Plan


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Water W1: Classification of OverallStatus (comprised of ecologicaland chemical status) under theEuropean CommunitiesEnvironmental Objectives(Surface Waters) Regulations2009 (SI No. 272 of 2009)

W1: Not to cause deterioration inthe status of any surface wateror affect the ability of anysurface water to achieve goodstatus8 by 2015

Data issued under theWater FrameworkDirectiveMonitoring Programmefor Ireland (EPA,2006)

The sampling and publicationtimeframes for theseinformation sources is of afrequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plantimeframe to date.

- Status data available for

2011;

- Q values are updated atdifferent times and at differentrates for different locations;

- Published trophicclassifications are available for2001-2003 and 2004-20062007-2009 and the EPAswebsite provides a currentclassification

For details on thecurrent status ofsurface waters refer toSection3.3.4.1.

The most recent Qvalues for testinglocations within theCounty are provided inAppendix II. The

sampling date of themost recent valuesdiffers across locations(from 2011 to 1987).

The most recenttrophic classificationfrom the EPA is for theperiod 2007-2009 forwhich all lakes in theCounty - apart fromLough Gowna - areclassified asOligotrophic (seeTable 3.3). LoughGowna is classified asbeing ModeratelyEutrophic.

For details on the currentstatus of surface waters referto Section3.3.4.1.

The most recent Q values fortesting locations within theCounty are provided onAppendix II. The samplingdate of the most recent valuesdiffers across locations (from

2011 to 1987).

The most recent trophicclassification from the EPA isfor the period 2007-2009 forwhich all lakes in the County -apart from Lough Gowna - areclassified as Oligotrophic (seeTable 3.3). Lough Gowna isclassified as being ModeratelyEutrophic.

W2: Groundwater QualityStandards and Threshold Valuesunder Directive 2006/118/EC

W2: Not to affect the ability ofgroundwaters to comply withGroundwater Quality Standardsand Threshold Values underDirective 2006/118/EC

Data issued under theWater FrameworkDirectiveMonitoring Programmefor Ireland (EPA,2006)

Unknown (the sampling andpublication timeframe for thisinformation source is of afrequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plantimeframe to date.

Information from2007-2009 is availablefor one location withinthe County, atMultifarnham. Thismonitoring shows lowlevels of ammonium,moderate levels ofnitrate and phosphateand a high level offaecal coliforms(>100/100ml).

New data has not beenpublished.

For details on the currentstatus of ground waters referto Section3.3.4.1.

8Good status as defined by the WFD equates to approximately the following in the current national schemes of classification as set out by the EPA:

Q4in the biological classification of rivers; and

Mesotrophicin the classification of lakes.


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W3: Number ofincompatible developmentsgranted permission on landswhich pose - or are likely topose in the future - a significantflood risk

W3: Minimisedevelopments grantedpermission on lands which pose -or are likely to pose in the future- a significant flood risk incompliance with The PlanningSystem and Flood RiskManagement Guidelines forPlanning Authorities

DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions granted


Not applicable,indicator is monitoringnew developmentsarising fromimplementation ofPlan from 2009

Areas of specified flood riskacross the County have notbeen identified however allpermissions have beengranted in compliance withThe Planning System andFlood Risk ManagementGuidelines for PlanningAuthorities

Material Assets M1i: Number of new

developments grantedpermission which can beadequately and appropriatelyserved with waste watertreatment over the lifetime ofthe CDP

M1i: All new developments

granted permission to beconnected to and adequately andappropriately served by wastewater treatment over the lifetimeof the CDP

Development

Management Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissions granted

At monitoring evaluation (1st

evaluation is SEA Scoping forCDP 2015-21)

Not applicable,

indicator is monitoringnew developmentsarising fromimplementation ofPlan from 2009

All new developments which

have been granted permissionover the lifetime of the CDPhave been - or will be prior tooperation - connected to andadequately and appropriatelyserved by waste watertreatment

M1ii: Preparation of aWater Services Strategic Plan -in compliance with the WaterServices Act - for the functionalarea of the Council

M1ii: For the Council toprepare a Water ServicesStrategic Plan in compliance withthe Water Services Act

Longford CountyCouncil


Not applicable,indicator is monitoringimplementation ofPlan from 2009

Preparation of Water ServicesStrategic Plan to beinvestigated once this isrequired to be prepared bylegislation

M2i: Number of non-compliances with the 48parameters identified in the

European Communities(Drinking Water) Regulations(No. 2) 2007 which present apotential danger to humanhealth as a result ofimplementing the CDP

M2i: No non-complianceswith the 48 parameters identifiedin the European Communities

(Drinking Water) Regulations(No. 2) 2007 which present apotential danger to humanhealth as a result ofimplementing the CDP

a) EPA The Provisionand Quality ofDrinking Water in

Ireland reports (EPA)b) EPA RemedialAction List

The sampling and publicationtimeframes for thisinformation source is of a

frequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plantimeframe to date.

a) Annual biannualb) Annual/biannual

Microbial ComplianceLevels 2009: 98.2%

Chemical ComplianceLevels 2009: 99.7%

Entries to RemedialAction List (Q1 2009):2 (Longford Central forAluminium and Ironlevels and Ballinalee/Edgeworthstown forCryptosporidiumtreatment)

Microbial Compliance Levels2011: 100%

Chemical Compliance Levels2011: 96.8%

Entries to Remedial Action List(Q4 2012): 1 (NewtowncashelRWSS - inadequate treatmentfor Cryptosporidium)

M3: Total collected and broughthousehold waste

M3: Minimise increases in and,where possible, reducehousehold waste generation

EPA National WasteReport

Annually Total collected andbrought householdwaste (t) in 2009:14,743

Total collected and broughthousehold waste (t) in 2011:11,107

M3ii: Packaging recovered(t) by self-complying packagers

M3ii: Maximise increases inpackaging recovered(t) by self-complying packagers

EPA National WasteReport

Annually Packaging recovered(t) by self-complyingpackagers in 2009: 23

Packaging recovered(t) by self-complyingpackagers in 2011: 83


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Air and ClimaticFactors

C1: Percentage ofpopulation working within theCounty travelling to work bypublic transport or non-mechanical means

C1: An increase in thepercentage of the populationtravelling to work by publictransport or non-mechanicalmeans

Central StatisticsOffice

2006, 2011, next censuspossibly 2016

The sampling and publicationtimeframes for thisinformation source is of afrequency that limits thedescription of change in theenvironment that may haveoccurred over the current Plan

timeframe to date.

Figures from CSOshow an overalldecrease of 2.9% ofthe entire populationaged 5 years and overtravelling to work bypublic transport ornon-mechanical meansin the County between2006 and 2011 - see

Table 3.4.

Figures from CSO show anoverall decrease of 2.9% ofthe entire population aged 5years and over travelling towork by public transport ornon-mechanical means in theCounty between 2006 and2011 - seeTable 3.4.

CulturalHeritage

CH1: Percentage of entriesto the Record of Monumentsand Places - including Zones ofArchaeological Potential (andthe context of the above withinthe surrounding landscapewhere relevant) protected

CH1: Protect entries to theRecord of Monuments and Places- including Zones ofArchaeological Potential (and thecontext of the above within thesurrounding landscape whererelevant)

a) DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-Departmental Reviewof permissionsgranted; andb) Consultation withDepartment of Arts,Heritage and theGaeltacht.



All entries to the Record ofMonuments and Places havebeen protected frominappropriate developmentgranted permission under thecurrent CDP

CH2: Percentage of entriesto the Record of ProtectedStructures (and/or their context

within the surroundinglandscape where relevant)protected

CH2: Protect entries to theRecord of Protected Structures(and/or their context within the

surrounding landscape whererelevant)

a) DevelopmentManagement Processin the Council/Inter-

Departmental Reviewof permissionsgranted; andb) Consultation withDepartment of Arts,Heritage and theGaeltacht.


Not applicable,indicator is monitoringnew effects arising

from implementationof Plan from 2009

All entries to the Record ofProtected Structures havebeen protected from

inappropriate developmentgranted permission under thecurrent CDP

Landscape L1: Number of complaintsreceived from statutoryconsultees regarding avoidableimpacts on the landscape -especially with regard toprotected views and prospectsand broad zones includinglakes, rivers, canals anddeciduous woodlands - which is

granted permission under theCDP

L1: No developmentspermitted which result inavoidable impacts on thelandscape - especially withregard to protected views andprospects and broad zonesincluding lakes, rivers, canalsand deciduous woodlands -resulting from development

which is granted permissionunder the CDP

Assessment by theCouncil



No complaints have beenreceived from statutoryconsultees regarding avoidableimpacts on the landscape


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3.3

State of the Environment3.3.1 Biodiversity and Flora and Fauna

County Longford supports a wide diversity of natural and semi-natural habitats and a wide range of plantand animal species, some of which have come under threat due to development pressures and increaseddemand for new development land.

CORINE land cover mapping for County Longford for the year 2006 is shown onFigure 3.1.The main

types of cover in the County are pastures with areas of peat bogs, transitional woodland scrub withconiferous forests interspersed throughout. CORINE land cover mapping for County Longford for the year2006 is shown on Figure 3.1.The main types of cover in the County are pastures with areas of peatbogs, transitional woodland scrub with coniferous forests interspersed throughout. The most commonland cover change between the CORINE 2000 data and the data for the year 2006 was from transitionalwoodland scrub to coniferous forests.

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) have been selected for protection under the European CouncilDirective on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (92/43/EEC) by the DAHGdue to their conservation value for habitats and species of importance in the European Union. There are6 SACs located in County Longford: Fortwilliam Turlough (Site Code: 000448); Lough Forbes Complex(Site Code: 001818); Lough Ree (Site Code: 000440); Ardagullion Bog (Site Code: 002341); Brown Bog(Site Code: 002346); and Clooneen Bog (Site Code: 002348).

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) have been selected for protection under the 1979 European CouncilDirective on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC) by the DEHLG due to their conservation valuefor birds of importance in the European Union. There are 5 designated SPAs located in County Longford:

Gl L h (Sit C d 004045) L h Ki l d D h L h (Sit C d 004061) L h R (Sit


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Figure 3.1 CORINE Land Cover Data 2006Source: EPA (2009)


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Figure 3.3 Important Stands of TreesSource: Longford County Council (unknown)


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they come into contact with human beings). Hazards or nuisances to human health can arise as a resultof exposure to these vectors arising from incompatible adjacent landuses, for example.

3.3.3 Soil

Soil types, as classified by Teagasc in co-operation with the Forest Service, EPA and GSI are mapped onFigure 3.4. This map indicates that deep well drained mineral soil and cutaway peat are the mostprevalent soil types in the County. Areas of blanket bog occur in the south west and north of the County.


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Figure 3.5 Geological Heritage SitesSource: Longford County Council (Unknown)


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There are 4 main lakes in the County, positioned along the County boundary, and all are identified asbeing of moderate status (seeFigure 3.6).

The EPA also monitors the quality of these lakes (seeTable 3.3 andFigure 3.7). Good status as definedby the WFD equates to approximately Mesotrophicin the national biological classification scheme of lakesas set out by the EPA. Mesotrophic lakes are lakes with an intermediate level of productivity, greater thanoligotrophic lakes, but less than eutrophic lakes. Mesotrophic lakes are commonly clear water lakes andponds with beds of submerged aquatic plants and medium levels of nutrients.

Lake Overall Status 2001-2003 Overall Status 2004-2006 Overall Status 2007-2009

Boderg Oligotrophic Mesotrophic Oligotrophic

Bofin (Shannon) Oligotrophic Oligotrophic OligotrophicForbes Oligotrophic Oligotrophic Oligotrophic

Gowna unknown unknown Moderately Eutrophic

Key Oligotrophic Mesotrophic Oligotrophic

Kinale Moderately Mesotrophic Mesotrophic Mesotrophic

Ree Mesotrophic Mesotrophic Oligotrophic

Table 3.3 Trophic Status of Lakes in Longford

With regard to the quality of ground water, information from 2007-2009 is available for one location

within the county, at Multifarnham. This monitoring shows low levels of ammonium, moderate levels ofnitrate and phosphate and a high level of faecal coliforms (>100/100ml). The status of the Countysgroundwater is shown onFigure 3.9 Most of the Countys groundwater is of good status. An area in thewest of the County is of poor status.

A number of water bodies within and surrounding the County Longford area have been listed on the WFDRegister of Protected Areas (RPAs) - these are mapped onFigure 3.10.There are six different types ofRPAs in Longford, namely Nutrient Sensitive Rivers (e.g. Camlin River) and Lakes (e.g. Lough Ree), Lakesand Groundwater listed for drinking water and water dependent habitatsSPAs and SACs.


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Figure 3.6 WFD Surface Water StatusSource: EPA (2011)


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Figure 3.8 pre-2010 Q-Values Points on RiversSource: EPA (Various)


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Figure 3.10 WFD Registers of Protected AreasSource: EPA (various)


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3.3.5

Air and Climatic Factors

3.3.5.1 Air Quality

In order to comply with European Directives relating to air quality, the EPA measures the levels of anumber of atmospheric pollutants. For the purposes of monitoring in Ireland, four zones are defined inthe Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 (SI No. 271 of 2002). The main areas defined in each zoneare:

Zone A: Dublin Conurbation. Zone B: Cork Conurbation. Zone C: Other cities and large towns comprising Longford, Limerick, Waterford, Clonmel,

Kilkenny, Sligo, Drogheda, Wexford, Athlone, Ennis, Bray, Naas, Carlow, Tralee and Dundalk. Zone D: Rural Ireland, i.e. the remainder of the State - small towns and rural areas of the

country - excluding Zones A, B and C.

The administrative area of Longford County Council is located in Zone D. Air quality in Zone D is currentlygood.The EPAs (EPA, 2012)Air Quality in Ireland 2011identifies that air quality in Ireland continues to

be good and is among the best in Europe noting challenges of levels of nitrous oxides in traffic-impactedcity centre areas, traffic emissions and particular matter concentrations.

3.3.5.2 Noise

Noise is unwanted sound. The Environmental Noise Regulations (SI No. 140 of 2006) transpose into Irishlaw the EU Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise,which is commonly referred to as the Environmental Noise Directive or END. The END defines a commonapproach intended to avoid, prevent or reduce on a prioritised basis the harmful effects, including


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Travel is a source of:

1.

Noise;2.

Air emissions; and3.

Energy use (38.8% of Total Final Consumption in Ireland in 2010 was taken up by transport, thelargest take up of any sector)11.

Land-use planning contributes to what number and what extent of journeys occur. By addressing journeytime through land use planning and providing more sustainable modes and levels of mobility, noise andother emissions to air and energy use can be minimised. Furthermore, by concentrating populations,greenfield development - and its associated impacts - can be minimised and the cost of service provision

can be reduced.

Maximising sustainable mobility will also help Ireland meet its emission target for greenhouse gasesunder the 2020 EU Effort Sharing target which commits Ireland to reducing emissions from those sectorsthat are not covered by the Emissions Trading Scheme (e.g. transport, agriculture, residential) to 20%below 2005 levels.

Figures from CSO show an overall decrease of 2.9% of the entire population aged 5 years and overtravelling to work by public transport or non-mechanical means in the County between 2006 and 2011 -

seeTable 3.4.

Means of Travel 2006 2011 Change

On foot 2656(12.3%)

2602(11.6%)

-54(-.7%)

Bicycle 218(1%)

189(.8%)

-29(-.2%)

Bus, minibus or coach 2660 2165 +495


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produces over 14.5 million litres of water each day which is collected at source, treated and distributed toover 25,000 people.

Available information on the capacity and demand of water supply schemes is being compiled and will beused by the SEA.

The EPAs The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland A Report for the Year 2011 (EPA, 2012)identified that microbiological compliance levels in Public Water Supplies have improved from 98.2% in2009 to 100% in 2011 whilst chemical compliance levels have improved from decreased from 99.7% in2009 to 96.8% in 2011.

The most recent EPA Remedial Action List (Q4 of 2012) identifies that the Newtowncashel RWSS hasinadequate treatment for Cryptosporidium. The Proposed Action Measure identified by the Remedial

Action List is the upgrade of the treatment plant to include effective barrier against Cryptosporidium.Progress on this measure will identified during the SEA process through inter-departmental consultationwithin the Council.

ExistingCapacity12PE

ExistingLoading PE

Availablecapacity PE

PlannedInfrastructure

Longford Town 20,000 18600 - 410013 Study being undertaken by WaterServices Department in the Councilexamining the future needs of thetown over the next 20 years. Tradeeffluent under review

Granard 3200 (2700) 2000 700 None identified

Edgeworthstown 2750 1950 - 55014 Trade effluent under review (fundingrequired to facilitate growth)

Ballymahon 2125 1925 200 None identified

Lanesborough 1550 950 600 None identified


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3.3.7 Cultural Heritage

3.3.7.1

Archaeological HeritageCounty Longfords archaeological heritage is protected under the National Monuments Acts (1930-2004),Natural Cultural Institutions Act 1997 and the Planning Acts. The Record of Monuments and Places (RMP)is an inventory, put on a statutory basis by amendment to the National Monuments Act 1994, of sites andareas of archaeological significance, numbered and mapped. The RMP includes all known monumentsand sites of archaeological importance dating to before 1700 AD, and some sites which date from after1700 AD. Over 1700 archaeological sites and monuments are recorded in County Longford under theRecord of Monuments and Places.

Figure 3.12 shows the spatial distribution of entries to the RMP. Over 1700 archaeological sites andmonuments are recorded in County Longford under the Record of Monuments and Places.


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Figure 3.13 Architectural Heritage - Entries to the RPS and Architectural Conservation AreasSource: Longford County Council (Unknown)


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Figure 3.14 Landscape Character AreasSource: Longford County Council (2009)


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Sensitive Landcover categories (broad-leaved forests, peat bogs, natural grassland, inlandmarshes and water bodies - 10 points);

Entries to the Register of Protected Areas for drinking water lakes and groundwater that is used

for drinking water - 10 points; Flood extents and risk areas - 10 points; Surface and groundwaters with bad (10 points) and poor (5 points) ecological status; and, Aquifers which are highly (5 points) or extremely (10 points) vulnerable to pollution.

The scale of sensitivity for each area of the County corresponds to the sensitivity factors: 5 pointscorresponds to one sensitivity factor; 10 points corresponds to two sensitivity factors; 20 pointscorresponds to four sensitivity factors and so on. The scores for each area are added together in order to

determine overall vulnerability as is shown onTable 3.6.

Score Vulnerability Class

5-15 Low

20-25 Moderate

30-35 Elevated

40-45 High

50-60 Extreme

>60 Acute

Table 3.6 Overall Vulnerability Classes

Although there are limitations and elements of subjectivity to the overlaying of sensitivities the overlaymapping was used in order to speedily identify the areas where conflicts between development within thePlan area and environmental sensitivities would be likely to occur if unmitigated.

3.3.9.2

Conclusions


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Figure 3.15 Overlay Mapping of Environmental Sensitivities

Source: CAAS (2012)


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Section 4 Key Scoping Issues

4.1 Introduction and Overview

Key scoping issues comprise:

The information to be considered for each of the environmental components which is detailed inSection 3 of this report (including the monitoring review and the Overlay Mapping ofEnvironmental Sensitivities - see conclusions of this mapping under Section3.3.9.2); and

The potential significant environmental effects which may arise from implementation of the newCDP (see Section4.3 below).

These scoping issues have been informed by an SEA Scoping Meeting with the EPA and OPW on held on29/4/13, an SEA Scoping Meeting on climate change held on 30/4/13 and the a written submission fromthe EPA.

In compliance with the legislation, the following environmental components, and any relevantinterrelationships16, will be considered by the SEA:

Biodiversity and flora and fauna Population and human health Soil Water

Air and climatic factors

Material assets


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In addition to complying with the legislation, the processes will be undertaken taking into account thefollowing guidance:

Implementation of SEA Directive (2001/42/EC): Guidelines for Regional Authorities and PlanningAuthorities. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2004.

DoECLG Circular (PSSP 6/2011) Further Transposition of the EU Directive 2001/42/EC onStrategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities.Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2009,

Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological

guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, European

Commission Environment DG, 2000, and; Managing Natura 2000 sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC:

European Commission, 2000 Guidance on Integrating Climate Change and Biodiversity into Strategic Environmental

Assessment, European Commission, 2013

4.3 Potential Significant Effects

The identification of potential significant environmental effects which may arise from implementation ofthe new CDP have been identified in the absence of the Draft Development Plan and will be updatedthroughout the SEA process. This identification has been guided by the effects which have been identifiedin the SEAs for both the CDP 2009-2015 and Proposed Variation No. 1 to the Plan.

In addition to posing potentially significant adverse effects it is likely that the new CDP will furthercontribute towards the protection of the environment that is already provided by the current Plan by:

Assimilating and providing information on environmental sensitivities so that these can continue


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4.4 Appropriate Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment

An Appropriate Assessment (AA) and Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) are being been undertakenalongside the SEA and the preparation of Draft Plan.

The requirement for AA is provided under the EU Habitats Directive (Directive 1992/43/EEC). Therequirement for SFRA is provided under The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines forPlanning Authorities (DEHLG, 2009).

The preparation of the Draft Plan, SEA, AA and SFRA are taking place concurrently and the findings ofthe AA and SFRA will inform both the SEA and the Draft Plan.

Submissions/parts of submissions on AA or SFRA made during the SEA Scoping process will be taken intoaccount while undertaking the AA and SFRA as relevant.

Appendix I details measures which were integrated into the current Plan through the SEA, AA and SFRAprocesses which were undertaken alongside the preparation of the current Plan and Proposed VariationNo. 1 to the Plan. Also detailed are draft additional measures arising from the SFRA process.

4.5

Alternatives

As per the requirements of the SEA Directive, the SEA will consider reasonable alternatives taking intoaccount the objectives and the geographical scope of CDP.

The alternatives will be constrained by the provisions of the RPGs and the adopted alternative (the Plan)will in turn constrain lower tier land use plans.


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Appendix I: List of Suggested Provisions to be

integrated into the Draft Plan

It is recommended that measures contributing towards the protection and management of theenvironment that are included in the current 2009-2015 CDP (see table below) are included in the new2015-2021 Plan. These measures were integrated into the Plan through the SEA, AA and SFRA processeswhich were undertaken alongside the preparation of the current Plan and Proposed Variation No. 1 to thePlan.

In addition to the measures already included in the current CDP the SEA, AA and SFRA will suggestadditional measures and updates to the measures - taking into account submissions from theenvironmental authorities - where appropriate. Two additional suggestions are included at the end of thetable below - these arose from SEA Scoping meetings which were held. Draft additional SFRA measuresare detailed in the second table in this appendix (these may be integrated into the Draft DevelopmentPlan by addition of measures and/or updating of current Plan measures).


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Table showing Measures from the Current PlanPotentially

SignificantEffect, ifunmitigated

Ref Mitigation Measures, including:

Loss ofbiodiversity

with regard to

Natura 2000Sites

NHB6 It is the policy of the Council to protect sites designated in National and European legislation, and in other relevant International Conventions,Agreements and Processes. This includes sites proposed to be designated or designated as:

Special Areas of Conservation under the Habitats Directive1 (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild

fauna and flora). Special Protection Areas under the Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds).

Both the Birds and Habitats Directives have been transposed in Irish law by Ministerial Regulation. The European Communities (Natural Habitats)

Regulations, 1997 are the most important of these because they provide for the protection measures and management regime that apply to SPAs andSACs.

No projects giving rise to significant cumulative, direct, indirect or secondary impacts on Natura 2000 sites arising from their size or scale, land take,proximity, resource requirements, emissions (disposal to land, water or air), transportation requirements, duration of construction, operation,decommissioning or from any other effects shall be permitted on the basis of this Plan (either individually or in combination with other plans orprojects)17.

NHB 20 Proposed large-scale developments, particularly on greenfield sites and in environmentally sensitive areas, shall be assessed in terms of their impact onthe biodiversity of the area. All projects and plans arising from this plan will be screened for the need to undertake appropriate assessment under Article

6 of the Habitats Directive.

NHB 22 The National Parks and Wildlife Service will be invited to prioritise the preparation of Management Plans for Natura 2000 Sites which are located in thevicinity of the County. This is in order to examine how the Conservation Objectives of the sites can be achieved in the context of the proper planningand sustainable development of the Plan area.

Loss of

biodiversitywith regard toecologicalconnectivity

NHB 1 It is an objective of the Council to protect, conserve and enhance the Countys biodiversity and natural heritage. This includes wildlife (flora and fauna),

habitats, landscapes and/or landscape features of importance to wildlife or which play a key role in the conservation and management of naturalresources such as water.

NHB 2 It is an objective of the Council to encourage and promote the appropriate management and enhancement of the Countys biodive rsity and naturalheritage.

NHB 8 The Council shall seek to co-operate with statutory and other relevant agencies to identify and protect a representative sample of the Countys wildlifehabitats, of local or regional importance, not otherwise protected by legislation. In addition, it is Council policy to protect Ramsar sites under TheConvention on Wetlands of International Importance (especially as Waterfowl Habitat).

NHB 9 Protect and enhance important landscape features and their setting including rivers, streams, canals, lakes and associated wetlands such as reedbeds

and swamps; ponds; springs; bogs; fens; trees; woodlands and scrub; hedgerows and other field boundary types such as stone walls and ditches.

These are important because;(a) they form part of a network of habitats, corridors and stepping stones essential for wildlife to flourish, thus providing a high quality naturalenvironment for all, and/or

(b) they protect and enhance surface water and groundwater resources and are essential as part of the integrated approach to the management ofwater resources, necessary to ensure the highest water quality into the future, as set out in the Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC

establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy).

17Except as provided for in Section 6(4) of the Habitats Directive, viz. There must be: (a) no alternative solution available, (b) imperative reasons of overriding public interest for the plan to proceed; and(c) adequate compensatory measures in place.


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NHB 18 It is the policy of the Council to encourage investigation into the establishment of wildlife areas and corridors, particularly in the context of educational,recreational and amenity facilities.

Loss ofbiodiversitywith regard toWildlife Sites

and specieslisted on

Schedule 5 ofthe Wildlife Act1976

NHB 4 It is the policy of the Council to protect important geological or geomorphological sites in the County, including any sites proposed to be designated ordesignated as Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs).

NHB 6 See NHB 6 above

NHB 7 The Council shall seek to identify, protect and conserve, in co-operation with the relevant statutory authorities, vulnerable, rare and threatened speciesof wild fauna and flora and their habitats with particular reference to those species identified in National and European legislation, and in otherInternational Conventions, Agreements and Processes.

Loss ofpopulationinvolved in landmanagement

Variousprovisions ofthe Plan

Various measures providing for populations in rural and supporting areas

NHB 22 See NHB 22 above

Spatiallyconcentrateddeterioration inhuman health

ENV 2 Any application for planning permission for new development, extension to existing development or intensification or change of use shall be assessed interms of its potential impact on existing adjacent developments, existing land uses and/or the surrounding landscape. Where such development wouldhave a significant adverse effect on the amenities of the area through pollution by noise, fumes, dust, grit or vibration, or cause pollution of air, waterand/or soil, planning permission will not be forthcoming, prior to the proposal and introduction of mitigation measures agreed with the planningauthority to eliminate negative environmental impacts or reduce them to an acceptable operating level.

ENV 4 The Council shall pursue the preparation, establishment and implementation of/compliance with the following documents/regulations, and any future

updates, through its Sanitary Services Section:

The Waste Management Plan for the Midlands Region. The National Hazardous Waste Plan. EU and National legislation on the prevention of Air and Noise Pollution.

ENV 12 ENV 12:The Council, in tandem with the EPA, will seek to ensure that all developments are operated in a manner that does not contribute to deterioration in air

quality.

ACA 2 ACA 2:The Council will only normally permit development proposals where the following criteria is met;

a) The development preserves and enhances the character of the area.b) The development is in sympathy with the built form of the area.c) The form, scale, materials and detailing of the development respects the characteristics of the area.d) Where appropriate, views of importance, including within, into and out of the area are preserved.

e) Landscape features of significance, including important stands of trees and hedgerows that contribute to the character of the area are protected.

f) The development shall not result in any environmental problems such as noise or nuisance which would be detrimental to the particular character ofthe area.

Various Also see measures related to water quality, flooding, waste water treatment and drinking water supply and quality.

Failure tomaximise urbanconsolidation

GeneralPolicy 4

The Council may promote and encourage development in existing settlements by private, voluntary and co-operative groups where practical andappropriate through the following measures :a) Opening up of appropriately zoned previously inaccessible land banks and making this land available to the relevant parties.b) Reduction in development charges in order to promote the re-use and/or refurbishment of derelict or run-down properties.c) The acquisition of derelict property where it can provide infill and/or reduce negative visual impact,


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CHAR 1 It is the policy of the Council that areas of vacant, derelict and under-used land within existing built-up areas (Brownfield sites) should be brought intoproductive use, as an alternative to the use of Greenfield sites which inevitably involves some loss of natural resources.

RPS 6 It is Council Policy to encourage the rehabilitation, renovation and reuse of existing older buildings where appropriate in preference to their demolitionand redevelopment.

Adverseimpacts uponthe status of

water bodies

ENV 6 The Council shall seek to protect ground and surface water resources from pollution. To this end, any identified major catchment areas of surface waterbodies, capable of use as a potable water resource or other beneficial use and areas of aquifer vulnerability shall be protected. Development of apotentially pollutant nature in these areas and any future areas identified shall be prohibited.

ENV 7 It is the policy of Longford County Council to encourage and promote compliance with the recommendations contained in the Shannon International and

North Western International River Basin Management Plans.ENV 8 The Council, where possible, in tandem with the Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) will support the development and implementation of a Groundwater

Protection Scheme.

ENV 9 The Council shall implement the relevant recommendations contained within the River Basin Management Plans for the Shannon International River

Basin District and the North Western International River Basin District, in order to facilitate the implementation of the Water Framework Directive.

ENV 10 The Council, where appropriate, shall seek to control and manage any potential point and/or diffuse sources of pollution with a view towards improving

and maintaining good water quality. Such activities include, but are not restricted to, wastewater and industrial discharges, landfills, quarries, mines,contaminated land, agricultural activities, wastewater from unsewered properties, forestry activities and the use and discharge of dangerous substances.

WS 9 To protect existing sources of municipal water supplies through restricting potentially pollutant development within a specified distance from theproposed source. In this regard, buffer areas are identified in Appendix 5. In these areas it must be demonstrated that development proposals will nothave an adverse impact on the proposed water source.

WS 10 To protect, within its powers, valuable groundwater sources and important surface water bodies from pollution through infiltration by domestic,

agricultural or other sources effluent/pollutant material.

WS 11 Where potential municipal water supplies are identified, it shall be the policy of the Council to restrict potentially pollutant development within a

specified distance from the proposed source.

SW2 Surface water storage measures shall be provided where it is considered that the surface water run-off levels exceed permissible discharge rates. Storm

water run-off design should be carried out in accordance with Sustainable Urban Drainage Standards (SUDS),Dublin Corporation StormwaterManagement Policy Technical Guidelines and Greater Dublin Regional Code of Practice for Drainage Works incorporating Greater Dublin Strategic

Drainage Study, Volume 2, New Developments or any future updates.

Increase in therisk of flooding

FLO 1 In areas susceptible to flooding, development may be restricted and where necessary developers will be required to submit a Flood Risk/ImpactAssessment and proposals for a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS). This shall also apply in areas where it is considered that the proposeddevelopment will impact on flooding elsewhere.

FLO 2 The Council, in tandem with the OPW, will support the preparation, establishment and implementation of any future Flood Risk Assessment andManagement Studies prepared for catchments within the County area.

FLO 3 The Council shall implement the recommendations and provisions of the DEHLGs 2009 Guidelines for Planning Authorities entitled The Planning Systemand Flood Risk Management (and any subsequent update) in the operation of its duties.

SW2 See SW2 above

FLO 4 Where the probability of flooding from rivers is low (less than 0.1%, flood zone C) the developer should satisfy him or herself that the probability offlooding is appropriate to the development being proposed. Among other things, mapping including the OPWs Pluvial and Groundwater Preliminary

Flood Risk Assessment mapping should be considered for this purpose.

Failure to

provideadequate andappropriatewaste watertreatment

WS 1 To consolidate the provision of basic environmental services in accordance with the 7 year programme as outlined, providing an integrated

infrastructural base for the physical, economic and social development of the towns and villages in County Longford.

WS 2 It is the policy of Longford County Council to investigate the feasibility of establishing additional projects in terms of improving existing water supply,establishing new supplies, sewerage mains provision (including the connection of unsewered, areas including individual properties/ premises, servicedby septic tanks to the existing and planned sewer network) and improvement of existing treatment plants in the medium and long-term and for theirextension to include adjoining residential dwellings.


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WS 3 It is the policy of the Council to establish and implement a small water and sewerage scheme programme for Longford County as part of the RuralWater Programme, established for the construction and upgrade of Group Water Schemes, small public water and sewerage schemes, and the taking incharge of Group Water Schemes.

WS 4 Extension of existing water supply and wastewater services shall be carried out where required and where resources permit. Where such extensions arerequired as a result of new development, the developers shall be required to pay a contribution towards the cost to the Council of this extension.

WS 5 The Council shall pursue the preparation, establishment and implementation of the following documents insofar as they relate to the Water ServicesSection:

The Sludge Management Strategy.

The Water Conservation Plan, including the promotion of water conservation measures in new and existing developments. The Rural Water Plan.

WS 13 The upgrading of Longford Town effluent treatment plant and phased sewerage system improvements shall continue on an on-going basis.

WS 15 The Council shall implement the relevant recommendations set out in the EPA publication (and any subsequent update) Focus on Urban Waste WaterDischarges in Ireland (EPA Office of Environment Enforcement, 2012).

Policy WS &WS(a)

Where required, public wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure - which fully complies with requirements of the Urban Waste WaterTreatment Directive (Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste-water treatment) (amended by Directive 98/15/EEC)including the need to provide secondary treatment and other treatment as required - shall be operational and with adequate capacity to accommodate

waste water arising from development, prior to developments being occupied. Discharges arising from this collection and treatment shall also complywith the requirements of the Directive.

It is the policy of Longford County Council to investigate the preparation a Water Services Strategic Plan - in compliance with the Water Services Act -for the functional area of the Council. Such a Plan may be prepared jointly with other Water Services Authorities.

Failure to

comply withdrinking waterregulations andserve newdevelopment

with adequatedrinking water

that is bothwholesome andclean

WS 1 See Policy WS 1 above

WS 2 See Policy WS 2 aboveWS 3 See Policy WS 3 above



WS 8 To ensure that the public drinking water supply of the County complies with relevant EU drinking water standards and to extend supply, wherenecessary and where resources permit, to meet demand.

WS 9 To protect existing sources of municipal water supplies through restricting potentially pollutant development within a specified distance from the

proposed source. In this regard, buffer areas are identified in Appendix 5. In these areas it must be demonstrated that development proposals will nothave an adverse impact on the proposed water source.

WS 10 To protect, within its powers, valuable groundwater sources and important surface water bodies from pollution through infiltration by domestic,agricultural or other sources effluent/pollutant material.

WS 11 Where potential municipal water supplies are identified, it shall be the policy of the Council to restrict potentially pollutant development within aspecified distance from the proposed source.

WS 14 The Council shall consult the EPA publication The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland (and any subsequent update) in the establishmentand maintenance of water sources in the County.

Policy WS &WS(a)

See Policy WS & WS(a) above

Failure to

contributetowardssustainabletransport and

ROADS 2 To provide a road network which is safe and efficient for all road users, cognisant of the requirements of all traffic, including motorised vehicles,

pedestrians and cyclists.

PED 1 The Planning Authority aims to improve the attractiveness and usability of the pedestrian environment of the County, particularly in residential areas,

designated settlements and in areas of high amenity.


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associatedimpacts

PED 2 The Council shall promote the use of alternative transport to the private car through encouraging enhanced pedestrian and cycling facilities inaccordance with the principles of sustainable development.

PED 3 Facilitate the provision of cycleways and footpaths, particularly in conjunction with new housing developments. The Council shall also promote thepotential development of long distance walking routes, particularly those with historical and cultural associations and links to other routes in adjacentCounties.

PED 4 The Council shall promote the organisation of traffic in towns and villages in order to separate motor vehicular, bicycles and pedestrian traffic. This is tobe carried out in accordance with the National Manual for the provision of Cycle Facilities in Urban Areas, DoELG 2000.

PED 5 The Council shall investigate the provision of dedicated cycle routes along routes of high amenity and along the Royal Canal.

PT 1 The Council shall promote the facilitation of a public transport system that works towards the integration of spatial planning and transport, inaccordance with the recommendations of the future Land Use and Transportation Study.

PT 2 The Council shall support the provision of transport initiatives that promote the development of Rural Transport Networks that enhance social inclusionof rural communities.

RL 1 To facilitate and promote the provision of a fast, efficient and user-friendly rail service which maximises the economic and social potential of CountyLongford and recognises its strategic location within the Country.

RL 2 To facilitate the expansion and development of existing and any future proposed rail facilities and supporting infrastructure within the County.

RL 3 To support the development of intra-regional rail linkages in accordance with Regional policy.

RL 4 To utilise the existing rail service and promote its use as an alternative mode of transport in line with the principles of sustainable development.

RL 5 To concentrate development which may be aimed at those commuting to and from Dublin within close proximity of existing rail links and to facilitate,where practical, improved access for pedestrians and cyclists.

RL 6 To facilitate and promote greater integration of public and private transport modes.

RL 7 To promote the use of the rail system in relation to the industrial and commercial development of the County.

RL 8 The heritage value of the entire rail network is acknowledged and, as such, the retention, conservation and enhancement, as appropriate, of thisvaluable resource is promoted.

BUS 1 To facilitate and promote the provision of an efficient and user-friendly bus service which maximises the economic and social potential of County

Longford and recognises its strategic location within the Country.

BUS 2 To promote the improvement of bus services to further the principles of social inclusion and sustainable development, including the national ruraltransport initiatives and potential medical transport initiatives connecting local, regional and national facilities.

BUS 3 To facilitate the provision of an integrated transport system for the Town and its environs and the County as a whole, with specific investigation into thepotential provision of a dedicated bus terminus at Longford and an Urban shuttle service.

Increases inwaste levels

WAS 1 It is the policy of the Council to facilitate and promote the implementation of the Midlands Waste Management Plan within its functional area.

WAS 2 It is the policy of the Council to continue to facilitate and promote the provision of civic amenity sites, including bring centres for the purposes ofproviding a collection point for the recycling of domestic waste, subject to siting, location, compatibility with adjacent land uses and other relevant

development control criteria. The Council shall promote the development of an additional Civic Amenity facility in the south of the County.

WAS 3 The Council shall have regard to the Waste Management Plan for the Midlands Region in the implementation, operation and management of schemes

and services for the disposal of waste within the County.

WAS 5 Where considered necessary, the Planning Authority will require Project Construction and Demolition Waste Management Plans as part of applicationsfor development in accordance with Best Practice Guidelines on the Preparation of Waste Management Plans for Construction an d Demolition Projects( DoEHLG, 2006). Such plans should be submitted for developments above the stated thresholds within these guidelines and as required by the PlanningAuthority.

Effects onentries to the

Record ofMonuments and

Places and

HER 1 The Planning Authority shall promote the protection and conservation of heritage sites, artefacts and monuments and the integrity of their setting, aslisted and illustrated in the Record of Monuments and Places (see Appendix 8).


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otherarchaeologicalheritage

HER 5 Any proposed development which may impact on the integrity and/or setting of any monuments, sites, objects or areas of archaeological, cultural,architectural, historical or heritage importance under the protection of this Development Plan and/or the Department of the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government, shall be referred to the relevant section of the DoEHLG for observations/comment prior to a grant of permission/approval beingobtained. In particular, the unique historical, mythological and cultural significance of Ardagh Mountain shall be recognised. Developments which

materially impinge on the character of the mountain will not be permitted.

ARC 1 It is an objective of the Council to protect known and unknown archaeological areas, sites, structures, monuments and objects in the County. In this

regard, development in the vicinity of recorded monuments shall be referred to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local GovernmentDevelopment Applications Unit for comment and these considered in the assessment of any application for development. In general, development within

a 20m radius of a recorded monument will not be permitted and proposed development within 75 metres discouraged (subject to other policiescontained within this Plan).

ARC 2 It is an objective of the Council to protect the integrity of the settings of archaeological areas, sites, structures, monuments and objects in the County.

ARC 5

final sea scoping report_overlay env sensitivities

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