Borth Coast Defence
Scheme
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
Borth Coast Defence Scheme
5037097-830/70/DG/046
Borth Coast Defence Scheme
Environmental Statement
28 June 2010
Notice
This report was produced by Atkins for Ceredigion County Council for the specific purpose of the Borth Coast Defence Scheme.
This report may not be used by any person other than Ceredigion County Council without Ceredigion County Council’s express permission. In any event, Atkins accepts no liability for any costs, liabilities or losses arising as a result of the use of or reliance upon the contents of this report by any person other than Ceredigion County Council.
Atkins Limited
Document History
JOB NUMBER: 5037097-830 DOCUMENT REF: 5037097-830/62/DG/019
3 For Client CMcD KW NC DF 28 Jun 2010
2 External Review CMcD KW NC DF
1 Internal Review CMcD KW NC DF
Revision Purpose Description Originated Checked Reviewed Authorised Date
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Contents Section Page
Glossary of Terms ii
Non-Technical Summary 1
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Glossary of Terms
Term Meaning / Definition
Accreting Occurrence of ‘accretion’ (see below)
Accretion The accumulation of sediments from any source, representing an excess of deposition over erosion
AD Anno Domini
AEWA African Eurasian Water bird Agreement (part of the CMS)
AOD Above Ordnance Datum - standard land height reference level used by Ordnance Survey based on mean sea level at Newlyn, Cornwall
Aeolian Processes
Processes pertaining to the activity of the winds and more specifically, to the winds' ability to shape the surface of the Earth
Appropriate Assessment The detailed consideration of the implications for a European Protected Site, with respect to the site’s Conservation Objectives. This is to determine whether there will be any adverse effects on the integrity of the site. Part of the Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA)
ATC Automatic Traffic Counter
BAP Biodiversity Action Plan – strategic framework for dealing with biodiversity conservation in the UK
Beach Nourishment The importation of material to add to existing natural sediment on a beach
BGS British Geological Society
Biotope An area of uniform environmental conditions providing a living place for a specific assemblage of plants and animals
Blue Flag Award A voluntary quality award for beaches and marinas adhering to criteria covering environmental education and information, water quality, environmental management and safety and services
BP Before present
Breakwater A marine structure, usually constructed of rock designed to dissipate wave energy and provide protection to the beach or harbour in its lee.
Bunded Area Area surrounded by a bund designed to retain fluids in the event of a spillage or leakage
Cadw The Welsh Assembly Government's historic environment division
CCC Ceredigion County Council
CCW Countryside Council for Wales – the statutory nature conservation body in Wales
CD Chart Datum - the theoretical level of water in any tidal area during the lowest astronomical tide (LAT)
CDM Construction Design Management
CEC Crown Estate Commission – organisation responsible for managing ‘Crown Land’ (see below)
CEMP Construction Environment Management Plan
CES Civil Engineering Solutions
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CMS Convention on Migratory Species
Coastal Protection A scheme designed to protect the coastline from erosion or encroachment by the sea
Coastal Defence Protection of the coast against erosion and flooding
Coastal Processes The action of natural forces on the shoreline and nearshore area
Competent Authorities Person or organization that has the legally delegated or invested authority, capacity, or power to perform a designated function.
CPA Coast Protection Act 1949
CRoW Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000
Crown Land Land owned by the monarchy
DAT Dyfed Archaeological Trust
DCWW Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water
DEFRA Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
DHPW Department of Highways, Property and Works (within CCC)
DoE Department of Environment
Downdrift In the direction of the net longshore transport of beach material
d50 The median particle size of sediment (in a sample on in an area)
EAP Environmental Action Plan
EAW Environment Agency Wales
EHO Environmental Health Officer
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment - the process of considering the effect of a proposal on the environment
EMS European Marine Site - refers to those marine areas of both SACs and SPAs, which are protected under the EC Habitats and Birds Directives
Erosion The detachment of material from the earth’s surface by the agents of water, wind and ice
ES Environmental Statement - the report on the EIA process
EU European Union
EC Bathing Water Directive (76/160/EEC)
Sets limits for chemical, physical and microbial parameters to ensure good bathing water quality in coastal and inland waters
EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC)
Aims to protect all European wild birds and the habitats of listed species, in particular through the designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs)
EU Convergence Funding Grants available to aid the regeneration of an area and to help the region’s transformation into a sustainable and competitive economy by investing in the knowledge economy and helping new and existing businesses to grow
EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC)
Aims to protect species and habitats which are considered to be of European interest and are listed in the Directive’s Annexes
European designated sites Sites designated under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives
Faecal Coliforms Group of bacteria, including the genera that originate in faeces as well as those not of faecal origin. The presence of faecal coliforms in aquatic environments may indicate that the water has been contaminated with the
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faecal material of man or other animals
Fauna Animals
FCA Flood Consequence Assessment
FCDPAG Flood and Coastal Defence Project Appraisal Guidance
FEE Foundation for Environmental Education
FEPA Food and Environment Protection Act 1985
Fines Particles of diameter less than 0.063mm (silt and clay)
Flora Plants
Foreshore The section of the coastline between the low and high water mark
FRA Flood Risk Assessment
Frontage The extent of land abutting the beach
FSC Forest Stewardship Council - independent, non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation established to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests
GCR Geological Conservation Review
Geotextile Layer Synthetic material commonly placed beneath rock structures prior to construction to reduce future subsidence through the movement of sediment up through the structure
Glacial Till A mixture of fine and coarse rock debris deposited by a glacier
Groyne A low barrier built out from the coast into the sea, to reduce longshore drift
Groyne Field Series of groynes acting together to protect a section of beach.
HAT Highest Astronomical Tide – the highest levels which can be predicted to occur under average meteorological conditions and under any combination of astronomical conditions
HEM Historic Environment Map
HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle – vehicles over 3,500kg in weight
Hinterland The land behind the coast
Hold the Line The process of retaining the existing line of the shore / river bank by carrying out maintenance, repairs and replacement of defences, as necessary
Holocene The geological epoch which began approximately 11,700 years ago and according to traditional geological thinking continues today
HRA Habitats Regulations Assessment – the process by which potential impacts and alternatives to a proposed plan or project are assessed to determine the possible effect on European Protected Sites.
Intertidal Zone or Foreshore The area between Lowest Astronomical Tide and Highest Astronomical Tide
JNCC Joint Nature Conservation Committee
KWT Keep Wales Tidy – Welsh environmental charity focussing on waste, cleanliness and tidiness. KWT administers and operates the Blue Flag Award in Wales
Longshore Transport Movement of beach sediment parallel to the shore, within the surf zone. Also called Longshore Drift
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LAT Lowest Astronomical Tide - the lowest levels which can be predicted to occur under average meteorological conditions and under any combination of astronomical conditions
LVIA Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment - the process of assessing the impact of a scheme on the existing visual landscape
Managed Realignment / Managed Retreat
The process of moving or enabling the line of the shore / river bank landward from its current position. The process can be used to create / re-create areas of habitat that help in flood and erosion management.
MCA Maritime Coastguard Agency
MCCIP Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership
MCU Marine Consents Unit (part of the Welsh Assembly Government) – responsible for administering applications for FEPA and CPA licences in Wales from 1 April 2010
MFA Marine and Fisheries Agency – responsible for administering applications for FEPA and CPA licences in England and in Wales up until the MCU takes over responsibility (see MCU)
MHW Mean High Water - highest average level water reaches on an outgoing tide
MHWS Mean High Water Springs – the average level of high water during the spring tide cycle
MLW Mean Low Water – lowest average level water reaches on an outgoing tide
MLWS Mean Low Water Springs – the average level of low water during the spring tide cycle
MNCR Marine Nature Conservation Review
MPR Multi-Purpose Reef – a reef created / designed to achieve several aims – in the case of Borth, to improve coastal flood defence and improve surfing conditions
Natura 2000 The network of protected sites designated under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives
NERC Natural Environment Research Council
NNR National Nature Reserve
NWNWSFC North Western and North Wales Sea Fisheries Committee
NSO National Statistics Online
OCVs Operational Construction Vehicles
OPSI Office of Public Sector Information
OS Ordnance Survey
Overtopping Passing of water over the top of a structure as a result of wave action, seawater spray or the still water level exceeding the crest level
PAR Project Appraisal Report
Pers. Comm. Personal Communication
Piling A column of wood, steel or concrete that is driven into the ground to provide support for a structure
PPG Planning Policy Guidance
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PPS Planning Policy Statement
PRoW Public Rights of Way
Ramsar Convention Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources
RCAHMW Royal Commission to the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Wales
Resilience Actions Actions taken to improve the ability of a community to cope with an event, risk or uncertainty. In this case, to better cope with the consequences of flooding, erosion and climate change.
Revetment Shore protection structure constructed of rock laid at a determined slope angle. Voids within the structure dissipate wave energy
RFC Ratio of Flow to Capacity – a measure of a road junction’s capacity. The theoretical capacity of a junction is taken at an RFC value of 1.0. The design capacity is taken at an RFC value of 0.85 (i.e. 85% of the theoretical capacity), with values in excess of these normally forecasting operational problems.
RIB Rigid Inflatable Boat – a lightweight, generally small, boat constructed of a solid, shaped hull and flexible, inflatable tubes forming a collar around the top (gunwales),which enable the vessel to maintain buoyancy even during bad weather. Often used by emergency rescue services. Also known as a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB).
RNLI Royal National Lifeboat Institute
Rock Armour Large rocks placed in order to provide a protective layer
Rock Berm A narrow ledge or mound of rock
RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
SAC Special Area of Conservation – area designated under the Habitats Directive and provide rare and vulnerable animals, plants and habitats with increased protection and management
SAM Scheduled Ancient Monument
Sand Particles/grains of diameter between 0.063mm and 2mm
Sea Level Rise The long term upward trend in mean sea level resulting from a combination of local or regional geological movements (rise or fall of land) and global climate change
Sediment Cell A length of coastline and its associated near shore area within which the movement of coarse sediment (sand and shingle) is largely self contained. Interruptions to the movement of sand and shingle within one cell should not affect beaches in an adjacent sediment cell
Sheet Piling A type of retaining wall achieved by driving interlocking sheets of steel into the ground
Shingle Stone diameter between 2mm and 75mm, also called gravel.
SI Statutory Instrument – a type of secondary legislation (law)
Slipway A sloping surface, leading down to the shore from which ships/boats are launched
SMP1 Shoreline Management Plan - sets the policy for coastal management (1st
Generation) – provides a large-scale assessment of the risks associated with coastal processes and presents a long term policy framework to reduce these risks to people and the developed, historic and natural
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environment in a sustainable manner
SMP2 Shoreline Management Plan Review - sets the policy for coastal management (2
nd Generation) – see ‘SMP1’ above
SNP Snowdonia National Park
SNPA Snowdonia National Park Authority
SPA Special Protection Area – area designated under the Birds Directive to help protect and manage areas which are important for rare and vulnerable birds because they use them for breeding, feeding, wintering or migration
Specific Asset Assessment An evaluation of the sea defences in place in a particular area
SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest – an area that has been notified as being of biological or geological importance under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981
Swash Aligned Land orientated parallel to prevailing waves
TA Traffic Assessment
Terminal Groyne The groyne at the end of a series of groynes. This will mark the end of groyne field in the downdrift direction
TIA Traffic Impact Assessment - a process of determining the effect of a proposal on the existing volume of traffic
Toe The relatively small mound usually constructed of rock armour to support an armour layer, buried under the existing ground level
UDP Unitary Development Plan – the Local Authority adopted plan that sets out priorities and proposals for development and any conditions that may be need to be met
UKBAP UK Biodiversity Action Plan
UKCIP United Kingdom Climate Impacts Programme
UKCP09 United Kingdom Climate Projections 2009
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
UKHO United Kingdom Hydrographic Office
WAG Welsh Assembly Government
WCA Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
WEFO Welsh European Funding Office
ZVI Zone of Visual Influence - geographical extent to which the development proposals are visible from surrounding areas
Environmental Statement
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Non-Technical Summary
Introduction
Ceredigion County Council (CCC) intends to apply for planning permission and marine consents
to construct a coastal defence scheme at Borth, in Ceredigion, west Wales under the following
legislation:
• Town & Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) (for work above mean low water)
• Food and Environmental Protection Act 1985 (FEPA) (for work below mean high water
springs)
• Coast Protection Act 1949 (CPA) (for work below mean high water springs)
The Scheme comprises the following structures along the coast from Lower Borth to Ynyslas:
• A new offshore Multi Purpose Reef (MPR) at Lower Borth
• 4 x 60m long rock groynes along the Lower Borth village frontage
• 6 x new rock breakwaters along the Lower Borth village frontage
• 25 x 40m long new rock groynes along the golf course and Ynyslas frontage
• Removal of existing timber groynes – to be removed as new rock groynes and
breakwaters are constructed
• Beach nourishment with shingle and sand along the whole Borth to Ynyslas frontage
Initially, CCC intends to apply for planning permission and marine consents for the sections of the
Scheme along the Lower Borth village frontage. Further applications will need to be made for the
remaining parts, as and when they are planned to be built. The whole Scheme will be constructed
in phases over a 15+ year period.
Assessment Requirements and Legal Considerations
The planning and marine consent applications above fall within the remit of legislation that
considers the need for any scheme to undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prior
to the applications being submitted, namely:
• Town & Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales)
Regulations 1999 (SI1999/293) as amended
• Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2007 (SI2007/1518)
CCC appointed Atkins in 2009 to undertake the EIA. This document is the Environmental
Statement (ES), prepared as part of the EIA process, in accordance with the above Regulations,
to accompany both the planning application and FEPA/CPA application for the Scheme, both of
which will be prepared by Royal Haskoning, the appointed design consultant for the Scheme.
Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
There are a number of sites in or near the proposed Scheme that are protected under the
European Habitats (92/43/EEC) and Birds (79/409/EEC) Directives and the Ramsar Convention
on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites).
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The Habitats and Birds Directives require ‘competent authorities’ to undertake an ‘appropriate
assessment’ of plans, projects and strategies that are not directly connected to the management
of the site itself and that may have a significant effect on the site. This ‘appropriate assessment’ is
part of a process known as a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA). It is the responsibility of
the competent authority / authorities to undertake the HRA. For this Scheme, the competent
authorities are CCC, in respect of the planning permission and Welsh Ministers (via the Welsh
Assembly Government) in respect of the marine consents. Information to inform a HRA has been
included within the ES. In particular, such information is included within Sections 6.3, 6.4, 7, 8
and Appendices C and D.
Other Consents
The Crown Estate Commission (CEC) manages much of the foreshore and seabed on behalf of
the Crown and issues leases, licences and consents for activities and developments on Crown
Land. CCC has a long-term lease from the CEC for the Borth frontage foreshore and has notified
CEC of the intention to carry out works within the area of their lease. CCC will write to the CEC to
apprise them of the proposed changes once the detailed design has been finalised.
The Environment Agency Wales (EAW) has confirmed that the Scheme itself does not require
their formal consent as Flood Defence Byelaw 25 specifically exempts Local Authorities from the
need to apply for consent for work on sea defence structures. A consent may be needed if works
are to take place to or within 7m of the Glan Wern outfall, however, it is not anticipated that works
will need to take place within 7m of this watercourse.
Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) consent for works within Sites of Special Scientific Interest
(SSSIs), which are not covered by planning permission, and assent to issue planning permission
or carry out other works that could affect SSSIs under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW)
Act are also required for the Scheme.
Background to the Scheme
Borth is a small seaside village on the west coast of Wales in the county of Ceredigion. It is
located within Cardigan Bay, approximately 4km south of the Dyfi Estuary. The beach at Borth
consists of a wide, gently sloping sandy beach backed by a steep shingle ridge. It extends
northwards from the cliffs of Craig y Delyn at the south end of Lower Borth to the sand dunes
north of Ynyslas, eventually terminating as a spit at the mouth of the Dyfi Estuary. The village is
characterised by residential properties, cafes, pubs and bed and breakfast tourist accommodation.
There are approximately 100 houses / small businesses built on the beach crest itself at the
southern end of the village.
There are a number of coast defence structures along the length of the beach. The defences
have been constructed, repaired and added to since the 1930s, when the first timber groynes
were put in place. The current defences are nearing the end of their useful life and put Borth at
risk from a breach of the shingle ridge and from the effects of overtopping flooding, particularly
during storm events. Flooding of the High Street in Lower Borth and the golf course from wave
overtopping is frequent during winter storms. The properties directly on the beach crest are
particularly vulnerable and all have developed ad-hoc private demountable defences. During
more severe storms, shingle can be washed into the village. The frequency and severity of storm
events are expected to increase over time as a result of climate change.
Without any improvements to the current defences, continued losses of beach material will
increase, lowering the beach levels and enabling larger waves to come closer inshore, resulting in
more frequent and widespread flooding of the village from both overtopping and potentially by
breaching through the progressively weakening shingle ridge.
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Scheme Aims and Objectives
The Borth Strategic Appraisal Report (Royal Haskoning, 2006) set a number of objectives for any
coastal defence scheme in Borth:
• To reduce the risk of over overtopping, breaching and associated damage to Lower
Borth by increasing the standard of defence to 1:100. This means that the Scheme will
afford protection to an event that has 1% chance of occurring at any time.
• To maintain and, if possible, improve the high amenity, social and recreational value of
the area, particularly the surfing amenity
• To minimise adverse potential impacts upon the natural environment of the area and
maximise opportunities for environmental enhancement
The Borth Outline Design Report (Royal Haskoning, 2008) considers that the primary means of
achieving the standard of defences is by maintaining a healthy shingle ridge in front of the hard
defences (breastwork). The crest level of the breastwork also controls the volume of water
overtopping the defences.
The Scheme is designed to help manage the risks along the length of the Borth-Ynyslas frontage
over the next 20-50 years. This is consistent with the existing Shoreline Management Plan
(SMP1) policies of ‘hold the line’ along these stretches of coast (see Section 5).
The Scheme alone will not eliminate the risks from flooding and erosion. Other community
resilience actions to help the community adapt to climate change and reduce the impacts of
flooding and erosion to the people and environment of Borth will also be needed. A long-term
strategy for the whole Borth to Ynyslas frontage will need to be considered. These other actions
are part of WAG’s New Approaches programme (WAG, 2007a & 2007b) to managing all sources
of flooding in Wales and the development of the Shoreline Management Plan Review (SMP2).
Consideration of Alternatives
Over the last ten years, CCC has commissioned a number of studies to develop a coastal defence
scheme for Borth. The Borth Strategic Appraisal Report (Royal Haskoning, 2006) considered a
range of alternative schemes on three strategic levels:
• Level 1 – Do nothing / do minimum (2 options)
• Level 2 – Continue with the current standard of defence (2 options)
• Level 3 – Improve defences (7 options)
All these options consider the whole frontage from Lower Borth to Ynyslas where defences
currently exist. Five of the options were initially rejected and the remaining six underwent Multi
Criteria Analysis (MCA), scoring each option against the following criteria:
• Technical
• Economics
• Amenity
• Environment
• Operation and maintenance
• Health and safety
• Constructability
• Planning acceptability
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The Borth Strategic Appraisal Report (Royal Haskoning, 2006) concluded that the preferred option
to take forward should be Option 9A, which incorporated the construction of rock control structures
and an offshore reef with beach nourishment along the Lower Borth frontage as well as the
replacement of the timber groynes along the golf course and Ynyslas frontages with rock groynes
supported by beach nourishment. See Sections 2.2 – 2.5 for more detail.
This option was preferred as it offers the potential to enhance the amenity value of the area, over
and above the other options by improving the surfing amenity of the Borth beach. Furthermore, it
requires fewer large rock structures on the beach in front of the village. The report did, however,
highlight the uncertainties concerning the costs of maintenance to the reef structure and the
greater overall cost of Option 9A, compared to other similar options (Options 9 and 10).
In 2008 the preferred scheme (Option 9A) was submitted to WAG and approval was gained to
develop the scheme to the outline design stage. In 2009, CCC was successful in their application
for EU Convergence Funding to help fund the development, delivery and construction of Phase 1
of the Scheme, beginning in 2010.
Atkins Ltd. have been appointed by CCC to undertake the environmental assessments needed to
support the planning and marine consent applications needed for the entire Scheme. Royal
Haskoning have been appointed by CCC to undertake the detailed design of Phase 1.
Later phases of the Scheme are anticipated to be constructed in three further phases in 5, 10, and
15 years.
Indicative Scheme Phasing
Phase Year Location Elements
Phase 1 0 +
(2010)
Lower Borth • New offshore Multi Purpose Artificial Reef (MPR)
• 2 x 60m long rock groynes
• 2 x rock breakwaters
• Removal of existing timber groynes
• Beach nourishment with shingle and sand
Phase 2 5 + Borth and Golf Club • 4 x rock breakwaters
• 2 x 60m long rock groynes
• 4 x 40m long rock groynes
• Removal of existing groynes
• Beach nourishment with shingle and sand
Phase 3 10 + Golf Course • Removal of existing timber groynes
• 10 x 40m long rock groynes
• Beach nourishment with shingle and sand
Phase 4 15 + Golf Course and
Ynyslas
• Removal of existing timber groynes
• 11 x 40m long rock groynes
• Beach nourishment with shingle and sand
The Scheme
The scheme will be constructed in a number of phases over the next 15+ years. The overall
layout of the Scheme is shown in the figure below (taken from Royal Haskoning, 2008). The EIA
has been undertaken based on the outline design. Should the Scheme be successful in gaining
the required planning application and marine consents, dimensions and quantities will be
determined in detail as part of the detailed design process. The detailed design will be informed
by physical modelling and value engineering undertaken by the designer and contractor appointed
to undertake construction. See Section 3.1 for more detail on the design.
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Scheme layout (Source: Borth Coast Protection Scheme Outline Design Report, Royal Haskoning, 2008)
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The construction methodology (and associated potential impacts) will be partly determined by the
preferred delivery option for materials. The ES considers the potential impacts associated with
the possibility of delivery either by sea or by road. Where there are differences in the approach or
impacts associated with the different delivery options, they are clearly identified based on the
following options:
• Delivery Option A – delivery of all construction materials by sea. Only plant, site
compound structures and labour would be delivered by road.
• Delivery Option B – delivery of all materials by road.
Methods, impacts or mitigation actions that are not assigned to either Delivery Option A or
Delivery Option B are common to both options. Under both options, suitable vehicle access
routes across the beach to/from the slipway will be agreed between the contractor and CCC /
CCW to reduce the impact of vehicles to the intertidal area to reduce impacts to the geological
features and the intertidal ecology on the beach (see Sections 6.3 and 6.4). In order to reduce
the noise to local residents in proximity of the works, working hours will be agreed with CCC
EHOs (see Sections 6.7). A Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) has been undertaken to assess the
potential impacts on the local road network of Delivery Option B (see Section 6.5).
The construction methodology will be agreed in consultation with CCC Planning, CCW and EAW
as part of the procurement process. CCC will need to be assured that every possible measure
(within the limits of what is economically and operationally viable) has been taken to minimise
disruption to locals and tourists.
Multi Purpose Reef (MPR)
The MPR would be constructed in Phase 1 and located around 300 - 400m offshore of Lower
Borth. It would comprise two arms – a northern and a southern arm – connected by a narrower
‘joiner’. The configuration of the MPR is designed to reduce wave action reaching the shore
behind the reef, maintaining the salient and shingle ridge, which act as the primary defence for the
village. Additionally, the shape should improve the consistency and quality of the surf around the
reef at certain states of the tide.
The MPR could be constructed in two ways:
1. Using large, sand-filled geotextile ‘bags’ placed on the seabed. It is estimated that
approximately 20,000 m3 sand would be needed to construct the MPR. The source of
material has not yet been determined, although it is likely that a licensed marine source
would be used.
2. Large rocks, similar to those used for the rock groynes and rock breakwaters (see below).
It is estimated that approximately 20,000 m3 of rocks (33,000 tonnes) ranging in size from
0.5 tonnes to 6 tonnes would be needed to construct the MPR.
If the MPR were to be constructed of sand filled geotextile bags, the number of bags required
would depend on the size of the bags used. Placing and filling the bags would require the use of
plant including a barge, dive vessel, digger, mooring blocks, pumps, pipelines and a team of
approximately 20 - 25 men (including a dive team, skipper, deck hand, pump team, and fabrication
crew).
Constructing the MPR from rock would require the rock to be placed on the seabed by excavators
to build up the required shape of the MPR. This could be achieved in a number of ways e.g. plant
could operate in the sea in shallow water, from a floating platform / barge, or from a temporary
causeway constructed of rock / shingle that will later be used for other elements of the Scheme.
The MPR will require additional monitoring above that which is currently undertaken to ensure that
it is functioning as it should and that no movement or damage to the reef has taken place.
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There is currently no sub-tidal monitoring at Borth, although topographic surveys of the beach are
undertaken regularly throughout the year. Should the MPR be made of sand filled geotextile
bags, it is suggested that diver inspections are carried out annually for the first 10 years to assess
the overall structural integrity and the condition of the geotextile bags. See Section 3.1 for more
detail on the design and construction of the MPR.
Rock Groynes
29 new rock groynes are proposed along the Borth and Ynyslas frontage to control the longshore
movement of shingle and help control the shape of the beach by holding the shingle against the
timber breastwork. The rock groynes will replace the existing timber groynes, which currently
control the movement of shingle. Rock groynes would be constructed in a phased manner:
• Phase 1 – 2 x 60m long rock groynes at Lower Borth
• Future Phases – 2 x 60m long rock groynes along the remaining village frontage + 24 x
40m long rock groynes along the golf course and Ynyslas frontages
The rock groynes would be constructed from up to 6 tonne armour rocks, with the lowest layer of
rock below the level of the beach. Each 60m long rock groyne would have a footprint of around
500m2 and require approximately 1,200m
3 rock (2,000 tonnes). Each 40m long rock groyne would
have a footprint of around 325m2 and require approximately 800m
3 rock (1,400 tonnes). See
Section 3.1 for more detail on the design and construction of the rock groynes.
Rock Breakwaters
Six rock breakwaters would be constructed in a phased manner:
• Phase 1 - 2 rock breakwaters at Lower Borth
• Future Phases – 4 rock breakwaters along the remaining village frontage
The rock breakwaters would work with the rock groynes to control the longshore movement of
shingle and hold the shingle against the timber breastwork.
The rock breakwaters would be asymmetric open V-shaped structures located approximately 50m
from the top of the beach (upper timber breastwork). Spacing between the rock breakwaters and
adjacent rock groynes will be approximately 150m. The rock breakwaters would be constructed
from up to 6 tonne armour rocks. The volume of rock needed for each rock breakwater is
approximately 1,700m3 (2,800 tonnes). The footprint area of each rock breakwaters would be
approximately 570m2. See Section 3.1 for more detail on the design and construction of the rock
breakwaters.
Beach Nourishment
Beach nourishment would take place along most of the Borth to Ynyslas frontage. Shingle will be
placed on the beach to create a stable beach within the embayments formed by the rock
structures and/or the reef. Along the village frontage, the aim is to create and sustain a shingle
berm with a minimum crest width of 10m.
During Phase 1, approximately 5,000m3 sand (approximately 8,000 tonnes) and 5,000m
3 shingle
(approximately 9,000 tonnes) will be used to form the salient behind the MPR, while 70,000m3
shingle (approximately 126,000 tonnes) will be added to the shingle berm. Approximately
40,000m3 shingle (approximately 72,000 tonnes) will also be used to create a shingle berm to
control wave overtopping along the frontage in future phases.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 8 5037097-830/70/DG/046
The material imported for beach nourishment will be of a similar size grading and character
(mixture of sand/shingle/cobble) and colour to the existing sediment. No sources of sand or
shingle have yet been identified, although it is likely that the sand will come from a licensed
marine source. See Section 3.1 for more detail on the use of beach nourishment.
Removal of Existing Timber Groynes
The timber groynes would be removed and replaced by the 29 rock groynes and 6 rock
breakwaters. The existing timber groynes will be progressively removed as and when they are
replaced by new works. The phasing of the works will be determined by the deterioration of the
current sea defences (timber groynes and breastwork). This will ensure that structures to control
the movement of shingle will remain in place along the whole frontage as the Scheme progresses.
All waste materials will be removed and disposed of at a licensed waste site by a licensed waste
carrier. See Section 3.1 for more detail on the removal of the timber groynes.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas
There is potential to create an area of managed realignment at Ynyslas during later stages of the
Scheme (Phase 4). This could be achieved by allowing the most northerly groynes and
associated breastwork to fail over time (whilst measures to ensure that public Health and Safety is
protected) and the shoreline to retreat inland. Construction of a set back defence could be
required.
The decision on whether or not managed realignment will take place in this area will not be made
for several years and will depend on a number of factors, such as the Shoreline Management Plan
Review policy for the area (currently being developed), how the parts of the Scheme that will have
already been constructed are affecting the shoreline and climate change effects. Any future area
of managed realignment will need to be planned and designed in detail and will be subject to a
more detailed EIA. The ES only considers this option at a high level. See Section 3.1 for more
detail on the possibility of managed realignment at Ynyslas.
Decommissioning
This ES also considers the impacts of decommissioning the Scheme at a high level. For the
purposes of assessing the potential impacts, it is assumed that the full Scheme would be
removed. A detailed impact assessment (and potentially a HRA) may be required prior to any
decommissioning works taking place, based on the specific decommissioning actions planned.
Construction Schedule
Phase 1 will begin in late summer/ early autumn 2010 and for grant funding reasons must be
substantially complete by the end of March 2011. A 20 week construction period is anticipated.
The MPR could be constructed out of sand bags or rock. The construction of the sand bag MPR
will require the use of floating plant and divers. Late autumn and winter sea conditions in Wales
make it unsafe to undertake diving operations later than the end of September. Construction of a
sand bag MPR is not likely to start until spring 2011. The construction of the rock groynes,
detached rock breakwaters and rock MPR could commence in late summer / early autumn 2010
and continue over the winter. Beach nourishment would take place following construction of the
MPR, rock groynes and rock breakwaters.
Future phases will take place as and when the existing defence structures deteriorate and need
replacing. It has been necessary to make some assumptions regarding the future phasing of the
works for the purpose of the EIA.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 9 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Site Compounds
Site compounds for the construction works have not been finally agreed at this stage. It is likely
that the contractors will make use of some of the existing parking areas available in Borth as site
and / or storage compounds.
Consultation
The development of the proposed Scheme has taken place over several years, with the
involvement of various stakeholders. To take forward the preferred option, CCC formed a
Working Group, comprising the following representatives:
• County Councillor for Borth
• CCC Dept. of Highways, Property and Works (DHPW) – lead department with
responsibility for taking forward the preferred Scheme
• CCC Community Regeneration Officer
• CCC Procurement
• CCC Planning
• CCC Legal
• Environment Agency Wales (EAW)
• Countryside Council for Wales (CCW)
• Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) Flood and Coastal Defence
• Welsh European Funding Agency (WEFO)
The need to undertake an EIA and HRA was discussed and agreed by the Working Group. CCC
DPHW officers held a pre-scoping meeting with representatives from CCW and EAW on 27 May
2009 to discuss the content of the ES and produced a pre-scoping memorandum outlining issues
discussed at the meeting.
Consultation was undertaken to produce an Environmental Scoping Report, which was sent as
part of a formal request for a Scoping Opinion made to CCC Planning and the Marine and
Fisheries Agency (MFA) by Atkins on behalf of CCC on 22 December 2009. Responses were
received from CCC Planning on 23 February 2010 and from the MFA on 19 March 2010. Atkins
also sent a copy of the Scoping Report to over a dozen other consultees. A public meeting was
also held in the Borth Community Centre on 4 December 2009.
The responses, comments and information obtained through these consultations have been used
to inform the baseline understanding and assessment of impacts undertaken in this ES. See
Section 4 and Appendix B for more information on the consultation process and comments
raised.
The Planning Policy Context
A review of the national, regional and local planning policy documents and other strategies
determined that the Scheme is consistent with national policy by aiming to protect the local
communities of Lower Borth and Ynyslas from the unavoidable consequences of climate change.
The Scheme is also consistent with the current Shoreline Management Plan policy of Hold the
Line. See Section 5 for more information.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 10 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Impact Assessment
Scope of the ES
The scope of the EIA has been determined by seeking a formal Scoping Opinion from CCC
Planning and the MFA (which has liaised with the Welsh Assembly Government’s Marine
Consents Unit - WAG MCU). As a result of the scoping process, ‘Air Quality’ and ‘Vibration’ were
scoped out of the EIA. . The following receptors have been included within the scope of this ES.
• Geology, Geomorphology and Coastal Processes – including sediment transport,
shoreline evolution, impacts on adjacent stretches of coast and coastal defences
• Ecology – including impacts on European designated sites and species
• Traffic and Transport – including impacts of delivery of materials by sea (Delivery Option
A) and delivery of materials by road (Delivery Option B)
• Water and Sediment Quality
• Noise
• Landscape, Seascape and Visual Amenity
• Tourism and Recreation
• Fishing – including impacts on commercial and recreational fishing
• Historic Environment
• Inter-relationship between the above and in-combination with other projects
An assessment of the impacts of the proposed development on each of the receptors listed above
has been carried out, considering the impacts against the baseline conditions.
The potential impacts of future phases have also been considered at a high level to enable the
competent authorities to make an initial assessment of the potential impacts of the entire Scheme
early on in the Scheme’s development process. CCW have indicated that further EIAs are likely
to be needed as and when future phases are planned. The potential impacts of decommissioning
the whole Scheme have also been considered in general.
The assessment of the magnitude of effects has been carried out using published data,
professional judgement and numerical modelling, where appropriate. The assessment considers
both adverse and beneficial impacts. ‘Significant effects’ are considered to be those identified as
‘minor’, ‘moderate’ or ‘major’ and either ‘adverse’ or ‘beneficial’. Impacts that have been identified
as ‘negligible’ are not considered to be significant.
Where adverse impacts have been identified, mitigation measures are proposed to minimise or
compensate for these impacts. Mitigation seeks to eliminate or reduce the impact to an
acceptable level. Any remaining impacts following mitigation measures (residual impacts) are
identified and highlighted in bold in the text. Section 7 contains a summary of the residual
impacts and conclusions of the assessment. Section 8 set out an Environmental Action Plan
(EAP) summarising the mitigation measures, and any other actions which could be required to
ensure that all issues identified within this EIA are addressed.
Coastal Processes
Phase 1 construction impacts to Geology
The majority of the construction work in Phase 1 will take place on land outside of the protected
sites (SSSI’s and GCR sites). There are unlikely to be any impacts on these sites or their features
(negligible).
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 11 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Excavation works needed to remove the timber groynes and to construct the new rock structures
may result in the damage and permanent loss of the submerged peat forest in these areas.
Movement of plant across the beach in areas where the submerged peat beds are exposed could
also result in damage to these areas. The amount of excavation that takes place and the tracking
of plant across the beach should be kept to a minimum to limit impacts to the peat beds. Vehicles
should avoid tracking across areas where peat beds are exposed. Where peat beds are exposed,
these should first be covered with protective matting or sand before vehicles are permitted to
cross them, to reduce any compression damage.
Should materials be delivered by sea (Delivery Option A) or construction works be undertaken by
sea, the anchoring of vessels and beaching of boats should be restricted to the areas outside the
area where forest beds have been observed.
Materials capable of damaging the submerged peat beds (such as rock) should not be unloaded /
stored on areas of the shore where peat beds are known to occur.
With the proposed mitigation measures in place the impacts of construction during Phase 1 are
considered to be minor adverse and irreversible in areas where excavation is required (in the
footprint of the rock breakwaters and, potentially, the rock groynes). In other areas, if peat beds
are covered by sand (either naturally or with imported material) or by protective matting, the
impacts are considered to be negligible.
Phase 1 construction impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
It is likely that the construction works will alter local patterns of sediment transport and therefore
the erosion and accretion patterns on the beach. This is most likely to occur if materials are
stored on the beach and during the short period between construction of the control elements
(MPR and rock structures) and the beach recharge. These are considered to be short term
minor adverse impacts which will be reversible once the dominant transport conditions return.
The implementation of measures to reduce the risk of sediment being released will reduce any
potential impacts to coastal processes. It is recommended that the works are arranged so that
complimentary structures and recharge take place so as to reduce the time period between the
construction of control elements (MPR and rock structures) and the beach recharge. This will limit
the potential for local patterns of sediment transport to be altered. If these mitigation measures
are put in place, residual impacts on coastal processes are considered to be minor adverse and
short term.
The geological and geomorphological SSSI’s and GCR to the north of Borth are considered to be
downdrift of the proposed works and impacts to these are considered to be negligible.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Geology
Following construction of Phase 1, erosion of the foreshore within the shadow zone of the new
structures will be reduced and it is considered that this is likely to have no adverse effect on
geological sites (negligible).
The rock breakwaters will have a fixed footprint on the beach and in the event one or both
structures are built on submerged peat forest beds, access to these beds for geological research
and educational purposes will be permanently lost, having a minor adverse and irreversible
impact.
The provision of an optimum amount of recharge material is an integral part of the design of the
overall Scheme and of Phase 1. This will be determined through the physical modelling and
detailed design process that is ongoing. The results of physical modelling will be used to
determine the optimum amount of recharge material and the precise location / orientation of the
MPR within the general location already determined. Given this, no additional long term erosion
of the beach levels is expected and the impact is considered to be negligible.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 12 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
In terms of the sand, any impact that the structures might have would be negligible compared to
the transport that occurs in and out of the Dyfi estuary mouth and the amount of sand in the active
system. The impact of the scheme on sand transport is likely to be confined to the local area
around the structures and is considered to be negligible.
There is a great deal of natural variability in the conditions along the frontage. The swash aligned
nature of the coast means that small changes in wave direction and storm action can lead to
significant alterations in the net drift directions – much greater than could be expected to occur as
a result of Phase 1 construction. Overall, the impact on geomorphology post construction of
Phase 1 is considered to be negligible, due to the localised nature of the impact on sand
transport and the relatively small volumes involved.
As part of the detailed design process, the placement and quantity of material used to create the
salient in the lee of the MPR should consider potential impacts to the Glan Wern outfall.
Provisions should be made by CCC in discussion with EAW to ensure that the outfall can be
cleared in a timely manner should it become blocked by beach material and additional mitigation
may be needed if blockages are frequent.
The existing system exhibits a “shuffling” of shingle northwards along the beach through the
groyne system, which acts to reduce the net rate of transport. This overall pattern of movement is
not expected to change and the overall impact post Phase 1 construction on the shingle fraction
are considered to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Geology
The construction works for future phases, particularly Phases 3 and 4 will take place inside the
SSSI’s and GCR sites’ boundaries. Consequently, there is the potential for impacts to the
designated features. Mitigation measures similar to those proposed during the construction of
Phase 1 should be employed during the construction of future phases to minimise potential
impacts to geological features and sites. In addition, monitoring information from the beach
monitoring programme should be used to inform the detailed design process of future phases.
The impacts of construction during future phases are considered to be minor to moderate
adverse (depending on the extent of the features in the footprint of the structures) and
irreversible in areas where excavation is required (in the footprint of the rock breakwaters and,
potentially, the rock groynes). In other areas, if peat beds are covered by sand (either naturally or
with imported material) or by protective matting, the impacts are considered to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
The impact on geomorphology during the construction stage of the future phases is likely to be
negligible, due to the relatively short time period of the works compared to the time period of the
processes involved in developing the morphological features of interest at Ynyslas. It should be
noted however that as the phases progress, they get nearer to the geomorphological features of
interest at Ynyslas.
Mitigation measures similar to those proposed during the construction of Phase 1 should be
employed and, as set out above monitoring information from the beach monitoring programme
should be used to inform the detailed design process. The impacts on coastal processes, with
these mitigation measures in place, are considered to be short term minor adverse impacts
which will be reversible once the dominant transport conditions return.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 13 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post construction impacts to Geology
Post construction of the whole Scheme, the impacts on geology are likely to be a moderate
beneficial. This is because the scheme will promote the natural transport of sand material on the
lower foreshore, leading to ongoing exposure/recovering of the features of interest, which is
consistent with the current approach to the management of geological features of interest
(allowing them to be exposed to enable access and study).
Post construction impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
The impact on sand transport on the lower foreshore is likely to be negligible for Phase 2 of the
works (similar to Phase 1 impacts). Phases 3 and 4 may have minor adverse impacts. Reduction
of these impacts should be achieved through appropriate consideration of the design of the
structures. Any impacts should be considered in the light of the natural variability of the conditions
along the frontage - small changes in wave direction and storm sequencing can lead to significant
alterations in the net drift and the transport in and out of the Dyfi estuary is an order of magnitude
greater than the net alongshore sand transport. The behaviour of the estuary in the future will be
a more significant driver on coastal processes and geomorphology at Ynyslas than the Scheme as
a whole. Overall impacts to the sand sediment are considered to be negligible.
In relation to shingle, the new rock groynes built during future phases will behave in a similar
fashion to those built in Phase 1. With the entire scheme in place, there is a pattern of reducing
beach control as you progress northwards, with the rock breakwaters and groynes of Phases 1
and 2 enabling limited throughput of material and the more open groyne system to the north
allowing greater potential throughput of material. This arrangement should limit the overall
impacts on downdrift geomorphology, however further consideration of this ability to mitigate the
impact should be considered during the detailed design and optimisation of the Scheme as future
phases are planned. Overall impacts to shingle on the beach are considered to be negligible.
It should be noted that there is greater uncertainty with respect to the coastal processes following
the entire Scheme being implemented and that ongoing monitoring post Phase 1 construction is
strongly recommended to inform the detailed design of the arrangement of future phases.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Geology
Under the possible managed realignment option, as defences deteriorate / are removed and the
beach erodes landward naturally, it is likely that a breach in the shingle ridge will occur at the
northern end of the defences in front of Ynyslas. Overall, managed realignment at Ynyslas could
have impacts ranging from negligible to moderate adverse, depending on the location of the
breach in the shingle and of underlying geological features of interest. Adverse impacts would be
irreversible and could have knock-on impacts on coastal processes and geomorphology. There is
a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the potential impacts of managed realignment at Ynyslas
and any knock-on impacts that this could have on wider coastal processes and geomorphology. It
is important that a better understanding of the potential direct and indirect impacts of managed
realignment is reached before a decision on this aspect of the Scheme is taken forward.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
Managed realignment at Ynyslas will alter the coastal processes and hence the geomorphology of
the shoreline. Under a managed realignment scenario at Ynyslas, the impacts on coastal
processes and geomorphology could potentially be up to minor adverse, though the exact details
and extent are difficult to predict with certainty and would require additional investigation to
determine. At present, it is difficult to determine the scale and extent of such impacts and future
investigation and modelling, informed by the proposed and ongoing beach monitoring programme,
should be undertaken when the latter stages of the Scheme and the possibility of managed
realignment are considered in detail.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 14 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Decommissioning impacts to Geology
The decommissioning of the Scheme would require the movement of plant and machinery across
the beach. The specific impacts will depend on the material from which the reef is constructed
(rock or sand filled geotextile bags) and will be very similar to those resulting from the construction
of Phase 1 (see above). Overall, the impact on geology is considered negligible.
Decommissioning impacts to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
The removal of the scheme will result in a rapid change in the dynamic equilibrium in coastal
processes that will have been achieved following the completion of the whole scheme, however,
there is limited information and thus considerable uncertainty in defining the impacts.
In principal, the removal of the scheme will allow the recharged material to enter the wider coastal
processes cell and likely be spread along the entire frontage and aid in the ongoing development
of the spit and dune system at Ynyslas. In the short term this would be viewed as a moderate
beneficial impact since the development of the spit and dune system is seen as positive.
However, eventually a similar situation to that at present would be observed with a breach risk
along much of the low-lying frontage. The shingle ridge will roll-back with consequent major
adverse impacts on the designated sites and their features (see ecology section below).
Ecology
Phase 1 construction impacts to Nature Conservation Sites
As the scheme is located partially within the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC and adjacent to a number of
other European and national nature conservation sites, potential negative impacts to the
ecological interest features of these sites could arise during the construction work.
The majority of construction work will take place outside of the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC boundary
and those works that do take place within the SAC are not near any of the features for which the
site has been designated. Direct impacts upon the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC are therefore
considered negligible. Indirect impacts could arise as a result of changes to the coastal
processes and geomorphology. The changes however are likely to be minor and short term and
thus the impacts to the SAC are considered to be negligible.
The Borth Bog (Cors Fochno SAC) could be impacted by delivery traffic, however this is
discussed further in terrestrial ecology.
Phase 1 construction impacts to terrestrial ecology
The sand dunes at Ynyslas and the Borth and Ynyslas Golf Course are a considerable distance
from the site of construction or areas likely to be used as site compounds or storage areas during
the works and are thus unlikely to experience any impacts during the construction of Phase 1.
Impacts to the terrestrial ecology of the sand dunes and the golf course are considered to be
negligible.
The species of lichen associated with Borth cliffs will not be impacted during the construction of
Phase 1 (negligible).
Areas of Borth bog directly adjacent to the road could experience disturbance and damage as a
result of vehicle traffic during the construction period or due to lack of parking within Borth at times
of peak construction. The potential for impacts resulting from vehicle disturbance during
construction are likely to be greater with the delivery of all materials by road (Delivery Option B)
since there will be a greater number of vehicles passing the bog.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 15 5037097-830/70/DG/046
As with any construction occurring near watercourses, there is a risk of chemical, fuel or oil spills
occurring and contaminating watercourses. Overall, with appropriate mitigation measures in
place, the impacts to the terrestrial ecology are considered minor adverse, short term and
reversible.
Phase 1 construction impacts to intertidal ecology
The majority of work during construction will take place in the intertidal area and thus could result
in damage and disturbance to species and habitats immediately adjacent to the works. The main
cause of disturbance to habitats and species is likely to be from the movement of machinery,
vehicles and vessels on the beach and in the water as well as general construction activities such
as excavation. It is also possible that reduced water quality (caused by spills/leakages or
increased turbidity) may also disturb marine species.
The stockpiling of materials on the shingle ridge and beach may result in smothering of species.
However, intertidal surveys noted that the beach species observed were common and not
protected, although the presence of exposed peat deposits on the beach provides a habitat for
ephemeral piddock populations.
Removal of the colonised timber groynes will result in the loss of species such as barnacles and
limpets. These species are common throughout the UK.
There will be no direct impacts to the rock platform to the south of Borth. However the the release
of sediment in to the water column during construction could have a detrimental impact upon the
honeycomb worms (Sabellaria alveolata) reefs associated with the platform.
Overall, with the mitigation measures discussed in section 6.4.4 the impacts on intertidal ecology
are considered minor adverse, short term and reversible.
Phase 1 construction impacts to subtidal ecology
The construction of the MPR will result in the loss of some subtidal habitat within the footprint of
the reef (approximately 6,000m2) and in the area around the reef through damage/disturbance by
vessels and vehicles working on the reef. As predicted by HABMAP and confirmed by an
intertidal survey, the habitat loss will be confined to fine muddy sand colonised by molluscs,
polychaetes and amphipods which is a common habitat along the Borth frontage.
Construction of the reef may result in the loss of sediment or re-suspension of sediment into the
water column. There is a risk that this sediment could be transported offshore or along the coast
smothering any sensitive habitats. The nearest sediment sensitive habitats are the subtidal reefs
approximately 3.7km to the south or 12.5km to the north. These distant habitats are unlikely to be
impacted. Additional loss may be experienced if the reef is constructed from sand filled geotextile
bags.
Although the majority of work is taking place above MLW, there is potential for underwater noise
to be generated. Construction noise such as piling has been observed to result in behavioural
responses in cetaceans (whales and dolphins), however, no piling or works of this nature will be
undertaken during the construction of phase 1. It is possible that any underwater noise generated
may result in temporary displacement of marine mammals from the area but it would not be
injurious.
The potential release or re-suspension of sediment into the water column could directly impact fish
species as well as their feeding grounds and the plants upon which they feed. Further information
regarding impacts upon water quality is discussed in the water quality section.
Overall, the impacts upon subtidal ecology are considered to be minor adverse, short term and
reversible.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 16 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Phase 1 construction impacts to birds
There is potential for the work to cause disturbance to birds both within and around Borth through
physical disturbance to their habitats as well as through noise and general disturbance generated
by the presence and activity of vehicles, vessels and plant. However, only the section of frontage
in front of the area of works and immediately adjacent is likely to be effected and thus the frontage
to the north will still be available for wading birds to feed, as well as for over wintering birds (ringed
plover and Sanderling).
It is unlikely that the works will pose a disturbance to chough in the cliffs above Borth.
The impact on birds during the construction of Phase 1 is considered to be minor adverse, short
term and reversible.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Nature Conservation Sites
Following construction, the MPR will be located within the boundary of the SAC and will result in
the direct loss of approximately 0.0004% of the total area of the SAC. The subtidal survey
confirmed that the habitats likely to be lost in the footprint of the scheme are not those for which
the site was designated.
There is a risk that post construction impacts upon the coastal processes could result in the Glan
Wern outfall becoming blocked which would result in flooding behind the shingle ridge potentially
impacting the Cors Fochno site (Borth Bog).
Overall the impacts to nature conservation sites are considered to be negligible.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to terrestrial ecology
Post construction of Phase 1, impacts to the terrestrial ecology could arise as a result of changes
in the coastal processes, however, post construction impacts on coastal processes are considered
to be negligible. Additional impacts could result from increased numbers of visitors to the area
generated by interest in the MPR and improved surfing conditions. However, as any additional
surfing activity would be mainly restricted to the area around the MPR in lower Borth, impacts to
the sand dunes, golf course, cliffs and bog are not anticipated.
As set out above, blockages to the Glan Wern outfall could affect the terrestrial ecology of the bog
behind the shingle ridge, however, mitigation measures proposed are considered to reduce this
risk.
Overall, impacts to the terrestrial ecology post Phase 1 construction are considered to be
negligible.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to intertidal ecology
Some of the habitats and species will be impacted by the Scheme due to direct loss of existing
beach habitat from the presence of the new structures and smothering by beach nourishment.
Much of the foreshore habitat and species that will be lost is considered common, however, some
species are relatively rare and protected (e.g. sea kale, piddock). However, the areas smothered
by beach nourishment provide the same substrate as that lost and will most likely be re-colonised
from other similar areas along the remainder of the frontage.
The creation of new rocky shore type substrate in the shape of the rock groynes and breakwaters
will provide additional substrate that can be colonised by species such as limpets, barnacles and
algae, which colonised the timber rock groynes prior to their removal. These species are
commonly found on coastal defence structures in the UK and are already present on the rock
platform south of Borth.
Post construction impacts on the subtidal ecology are considered to be negligible.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 17 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to subtidal ecology
Post construction, the location of the MPR in the subtidal area will result in the direct loss of an
area of benthic substrate in the footprint of the reef (approximately 6,000m2). However, the MPR
itself will also provide a substrate available for colonisation.
A rock reef potentially offers greater benefits to the subtidal ecology as it would provide a more
complex structure with more crevices, refuges and faces on the individual rocks to be colonised
and offer shelter to a wider range of species.
Should the MPR be built of sand filled geotextile bags, monitoring is advised to ensure that
damage does not result in loss of sediment. Such monitoring would not be necessary for a rock
MPR, but would be beneficial to the general understanding of the colonisation and potential
benefits of artificial reefs to subtidal ecology.
It is likely the new MPR structure may be of interest to marine mammals such as the bottlenose
dolphins, particularly since it could attract fish and provide a new feeding ground.
The MPR is likely to be better colonised, attract more fish and thus potentially more marine
mammals if constructed from rock due to the provision of a more stable substrate and more
crevices/refuge.
The rock breakwaters and rock groynes may create additional feeding areas, accessible to fish at
high states of the tide, if they are colonised by algae and marine invertebrates. The MPR could
also behave similarly. This would be accessible to fish at all states of the tide. Fish are also
attracted to structures that offer shelter and may be attracted to the new rock breakwaters, rock
groynes and MPR.
Overall, the impact is considered to be negligible to minor beneficial and medium term.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to birds
Following construction, birds could be adversely impacted if the Scheme construction causes
permanent loss in feeding and/or roosting habitat. However, the existing beach does not provide
a significant habitat for birds. The loss of beach area caused by the footprint of the new structures
would be small compared to the remaining area of beach.
The Scheme could also have some beneficial impacts on birds, since the new rock structures
could provide bird roosting and feeding opportunities for some species. However, the significance
of any benefits depends on the numbers and types of birds present in the area, as well as the
colonisation of the new structures.
Overall, the potential impacts are considered to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Nature Conservation Sites
The impacts generated during the construction of subsequent phases will be similar to those
generated during the construction of Phase 1 (see above).
The additional rock breakwaters will be built outside the area of the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC, but
most of the remaining rock groynes will fall within the area of the SAC. Later phases fall within the
area around the Dyfi estuary, which contains the features “estuaries” and “mudflats and sandflats
not covered by water at low tide”. The SAC is considered one of the best in the UK for “estuaries”
and to support a significant presence of “mudflats and sandflats not covered by water at low tide”.
This area also overlaps with the Dyfi estuary SSSI.
The assessment of the impacts on the coastal processes and geomorphology of the area
considers the impacts of the construction of future phases to be negligible. Given that the
maintenance of dominant coastal processes is considered important to maintain the features of
the protected sites, knock on impacts to the protected sites are also considered to be negligible.
This conclusion is not, however, without uncertainty.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 18 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Construction of future phases - impacts to terrestrial ecology
There will be no direct impact to the sand dunes during construction of subsequent phases.
However, as the works move progressively north, it is likely that noise generated from the site and
by delivery vehicles, etc. will become more audible from the dunes. Terrestrial ecology may
experience disturbance from construction noise, with mobile species such as rabbits, lizards,
spiders etc. seeking refuge. Species within the dunes are likely to be accustomed to a degree of
disturbance from recreational use. Construction activities will generate different sources of
disturbance, but given the nature of the dune system and the availability of refuge, it is unlikely
that the noise disturbance generated will displace species from the sand dunes.
There will be no direct impacts to the golf course during construction of subsequent phases.
However, as the works move progressively it is likely that noise generated from the site of works
will become more audible from the golf course but this is not likely to result in any impacts to
terrestrial ecology.
No impacts to the cliffs are anticipated during the construction of subsequent phases.
The potential impacts upon Borth bog during the construction of subsequent phases are
considered to be similar to those during the construction of Phase 1 and could potentially be
significant if a serious pollution incident were to occur.
Overall impacts are considered to be minor adverse, short term and reversible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to intertidal ecology
The potential impacts to intertidal ecology resulting from the construction of subsequent phases
are likely to be similar to those during the construction of Phase 1. There will be no direct impacts
to the rock platform to the south of Borth and the potential for indirect impacts to the honeycomb
worm reefs is likely to reduce, as the phases move progressively northwards further from the rock
platform and the area where the reefs are found.
Overall impacts are considered to be minor adverse, short term and reversible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to subtidal ecology
The impacts to the subtidal ecology during the construction of subsequent Phases are likely to be
similar to those arising during the construction of Phase 1 due to the creation of the rock groynes
and rock breakwaters.
The impacts are considered to be minor adverse, short term and reversible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to birds
The impacts to birds during the construction of subsequent Phases are likely to be similar to those
arising during the construction of Phase 1 due to the creation of the rock groynes and rock
breakwaters.
The dunes are not considered important for breeding birds, so works towards the northern end of
the frontage will not have a detrimental impact on breeding or nesting birds. The dunes and
shingle ridge may be important for overwintering sanderling and ringed plover, respectively.
These species could be disturbed if works at the northern end of the frontage take place during
winter months. The dunes are, however, quite extensive, providing natural screening by the
marram grass and other areas of refuge. As the construction of latter phases does not extend
significantly into the dune system, impacts to sanderling and other birds within the dunes are likely
to be relatively minor. Given that the works close to the cliff are considered unlikely to pose a
disturbance to chough in the cliffs above Borth, the potential for impacts to chough in the cliffs
above Borth will lessen even further as works progress north.
Overall impacts are considered to be minor adverse, short term and reversible.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 19 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post construction impacts to Nature Conservation Sites
Following construction of the whole Scheme, all of the 40m long rock groynes will be located
within the boundary of the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC and will result in the direct loss of an area of
the SAC and Dyfi SSSI within the footprint of the structures. The new rock breakwaters will be
located in the same place as some of the existing timber groynes. The rock breakwaters will not
be located in the SAC. The total footprint of the structures within the SAC/SSSI would be
approximately 0.0005% of the designated area.
The features of the SAC that are in the area where the latter phases of the Scheme will be located
are “estuaries” and “mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide”. These features
are not likely to be directly impacted by the presence of the new rock groynes.
Overall, impacts to the protected features and sites are likely to be negligible. This conclusion is
not, however, without uncertainty.
Post construction impacts to terrestrial ecology
The impacts post construction of the whole Scheme are considered to be similar to those post
construction of Phase1 and arising mainly as a result of any changes to coastal processes. Post
construction impacts on coastal processes are considered to be negligible. Overall, impacts to the
terrestrial ecology post construction are considered to be negligible.
Post construction impacts to intertidal ecology
The impacts on the intertidal ecology post construction of the whole Scheme are considered to be
similar to those post construction of Phase 1 . These are considered to be minor beneficial and
medium term, due mainly to the creation of new habitat in the form of the rock groynes and rock
breakwaters.
Post construction impacts to subtidal ecology
Post construction, impacts on subtidal ecology and marine mammals are considered to be
negligible. The rock breakwaters and rock groynes may create additional feeding areas,
accessible to fish at high states of the tide, if they are colonised by algae and marine
invertebrates, but these impacts are considered to be very small (negligible).
Post construction impacts to birds
Impacts to birds are also considered to be negligible, as no loss of dunes are anticipated and any
breach in the shingle ridge will be small in comparison to the area remaining.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Ecology
The potential managed realignment at Ynyslas will lead to a direct loss of an area of the Dyfi SSSI
and the Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau SAC. It could, however, have a potential beneficial impact on the
nature conservation sites by creating a new habitat that could be included within the designation
of the existing sites.
The method by which any managed realignment would be carried out is, as yet, unknown and it is
difficult to identify specific impacts. However, it is likely that during the construction of the earthen
embankment plant will be required to track across areas of the golf course resulting is disturbance
and potential damage. In addition, it is possible that some excavation will be required within the
footprint of the embankment, prior to construction starting.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 20 5037097-830/70/DG/046
The potential impacts arising from the creation of a managed realignment and set back defence at
Ynyslas are likely to be similar to those arising in the construction of other aspects of the Scheme.
The degree to which plant will need to track across the beach will depend on whether existing
defences are physically removed (as part of the construction process) or allowed to degrade
naturally (post construction) and whether the breach in the shingle ridge is created mechanically
(as part of the construction process) or allowed to occur naturally (post construction).
Managed realignment would result in a loss of terrestrial habitat to the golf course area of the
frontage. This habitat is mainly grassed fairway. Overall, the remainder of the golf course will
remain intact and will be protected from coastal erosion / overtopping by the new set back defence
line.
Managed realignment will alter the type of intertidal ecology present at the northern end of the
frontage, potentially creating a lagoon in front of the set back defence. The exact nature and
species composition of the altered intertidal habitat is unknown and will depend on physical
processes, coastal management and the design details at the time. Should managed realignment
be pursued, a monitoring programme to follow the successional colonisation of the area should be
considered as this could provide valuable information for the consideration of other managed
realignment schemes elsewhere.
Overall, the impact on the ecology is considered to be minor beneficial and long term.
Decommissioning impacts to Nature Conservation Sites
Decommissioning works will have to take place within the boundaries of the protected sites in
which the Scheme elements are located (MPR, rock groynes). Following decommissioning, rapid
changes to the coastal processes and coastline can be expected, leading to breach(es) in the
shingle ridge and a rolling backwards of the shore. These changes will have potentially major
adverse and irreversible impacts to the protected sites in the area, namely the Pen Llŷn a’r
Sarnau SAC, the Dyfi NNR and SSSI, the Cors Fochno SAC and the Cors Fochno and Dyfi
Estuary SPA.
Decommissioning impacts to terrestrial ecology
The rolling back of the shoreline will impact on all the sand dunes, golf course and bog, although
the cliffs are likely to be unaffected. These changes will have potentially major adverse and
irreversible impacts.
Decommissioning impacts to intertidal ecology
The removal of the structures in the intertidal area will result in the loss of habitat and species
associated with them e.g. algae, barnacles, limpets, etc.
As the shoreline moves landward, due to the altered coastal processes, the beach will also roll
backwards, creating new intertidal habitat as it does. Overall, the impact on intertidal ecology is
considered to be negligible.
Decommissioning impacts to subtidal ecology
The removal of the MPR will result in a loss of subtidal habitat that will have been colonised by
sessile species and the loss of a potential refuge for more mobile species, such as crustaceans
and fish. Other mobile species that may have been attracted by the presence of the MPR (fish
and cetaceans) will disperse. These impacts are not likely to have an impact on the populations
of these species and are considered to be minor adverse and short term.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 21 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Decommissioning impacts to Birds
The removal of the MPR and rock groynes will result in a loss of feeding areas and possible
roosting sites. The potential fish attracting properties of the MPR will be lost and thus there may
be a decline in prey availability for birds. There impacts are not likely to have an impact upon the
populations of bird species and are considered to be minor adverse and short term.
Traffic and Transport
Phase 1 construction impacts to Traffic and Transport
Under Delivery Option A, all materials will be delivered by sea. As such, the amount of traffic
generated by the Phase 1 construction will be much lower than that outlined below for Delivery
Option B. Nevertheless, some road traffic will be generated, in the main through movement of
employee vehicles.
Under Delivery Option B delivery lorries will join the B4353 from the A487, however, it is unknown
which direction on the A487 they will arrive and depart as the source of the material has not yet
been established. This will ensure that HGV’s associated with the scheme will not travel through
Borth town centre.
The B4353 is a single carriageway road, varying in width along the delivery route, there are
several bends, no weight or width restrictions and two rail underbridges along the route but they
are sufficiently high to allow most HGVs to pass underneath without problem.
HGVs delivering materials to and from the site should be able to travel along the route without
major difficultly and additional HGV traffic is unlikely to create any capacity issues given the
relatively low traffic flows along this route.
The delivery of the MPR rock will generate the highest number of HGV’s with 14 two-way
movements per hour throughout the day. This figure has been used in the operational analysis as
it represents the worst case scenario.
As all materials are assumed to be delivered to the proposed site / storage compound, delivery
vehicles will not impact on the operational performance of the B4353 / High Street / B4572 mini-
roundabout junction.
The proposed site compounds would utilise existing car parks in Lower Borth, resulting in a
reduction in available public parking space during the construction of Phase 1 and potentially
resulting in a higher demand for on-street parking.
Upon completion, the site and storage compounds will be removed and the car parks should be
reopened and reinstated to their original condition.
It is more likely that under Delivery Option A, more materials would be stored on the beach as this
is where rock and beach nourishment material would be unloaded. As such, it is anticipated that a
smaller area for site compound / storage for site offices, employee parking, storage of plant and
some materials (e.g. fuel) would be needed. Delivery Option B could potentially need to use a
larger proportion of the available parking space to enable delivery vehicles to enter, unload and
leave as well as for site offices, etc. as outlined for Delivery Option A above.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Traffic and Transport
Post Phase 1 construction, the MPR could lead to an increase in visitor traffic, particularly surfers
if the MPR improves the surfability of the waters off Borth. It is, however, very difficult to
determine the number of additional surfers.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 22 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Atkins’ research (using reports, websites or other sources) indicates mixed reviews regarding the
attractiveness of an artificial reef to surfers, but it is anticipated that a MPR is likely to attract some
additional surfers to Borth. Our only evidence of numbers on existing reefs is at Boscombe on the
opening day, when approximately 12 surfers used the new reef. This in itself is not a very high
number and we would anticipate that the number attracted to Borth would be lower as the reef in
Boscombe is part of a larger development and is a more popular surfing destination, closer to
population centres.
The peak tourist season in Borth is during the summer and this is when the demand for parking is
at its highest but this is the time of the year when experienced surfers may be dissuaded from
surfing due to the high volume of other beach users. The number and regularity of surfers to the
MPR at Borth will depend on how it changes the surfing conditions in the area and the skill level
needed to surf the MPR.
The forecast maximum anticipated number of additional surfers attracted to the MPR, during the
peak season is estimated to be five per day. As a worst case scenario, this would generate five
additional car trips and the demand for five additional parking spaces.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Traffic and Transport
Future Phases of work would not generate as much traffic as Phase 1 (Phases 2 – 4 combined
require 60% of the material needed for Phase 1). Given that the amount of traffic forecast to be
generated during Phase 1 has been assessed as having little or no impact on the key junctions
entering Borth, the traffic required for each of the future phases is not likely to impact on the
operation of these key points in the road transport system.
Future phases of work are located further along the frontage and the delivery of materials to / from
the works for future phases would either have to travel through the village, along High Street, or
track across the beach itself. The movements of large vehicles through the village has potential to
impact on local traffic as the road is relatively narrow with on street parking on both sides of the
road. This issue is likely to be greatest during Phase 2, which would require site traffic to pass
through the section of the village with houses on both sides of High Street.
Alternatively, delivery and construction traffic for future Phases could approach Borth from the
opposite direction, via Ynyslas. However, a section of the road between Llancynfelin and Ynyslas
is laid on former bogland and a survey of the road should be undertaken prior to its use.
Overall, the impacts of constructing future phases on traffic and transport are considered to be
minor to moderate adverse (depending on the route that site traffic takes) and short term.
Post construction impacts to Traffic and Transport
Post construction of the whole scheme, no impacts on traffic and transport additional to those set
out above are anticipated.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Traffic and Transport
Undertaking managed realignment along the northern part of the shore would result in the
inundation of an area of land, including part of the car park. As such, it is considered that in
addition to those impacts outline above as occurring during construction of future phases, this
option would have an additional long term, minor to moderate adverse impact on parking
(depending on the area of car park lost).
Decommissioning impacts to Traffic and Transport
Prior to decommissioning taking place, a detailed impact assessment should be submitted to, and
approved by, CCC Highways Authority. General mitigation measures used during the
construction of Phase 1 and the development of a traffic management plan should also be
considered prior to decommissioning.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 23 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Water and Sediment Quality
Phase 1 construction impacts to Water and Sediment quality
During construction, there is a risk of the release and re-suspension of sediment as a result of
construction works (including excavation, tracking across the beach, filling and/or placement of
geotextile bags, beach nourishment etc), which could increase levels of turbidity in the water
column. This could impact marine ecology and coastal processes (see sections above).
There is a risk that any sediment released could contain contaminants, which could reduce water
quality. There is no evidence that the existing beach sediment at Borth contains contaminants.
Historically, mining took place in the general area, however, it is unlikely that significant levels of
contaminants would be on the seabed. The car park adjacent to the slipway, which is proposed
as a site compound used to house a petrol filling station. Some residual contamination from petrol
storage tanks may remain.
There is a risk that contaminants could be brought to the site during beach nourishment and
construction of the MPR (if constructed from geotextile bags) as sediment will be imported from an
external source. Should the material be determined to contain harmful contaminants, an
alternative source would be found.
As with many construction Schemes near water, there is a risk of pollution from spills and leaks of
fuels and chemicals. To reduce the impacts on water quality from pollutants, the following best
practice measures will be implemented and included within the CEMP as well as the adoption of
appropriate working practices.
Consideration has been given to the impact of the Scheme on the Bathing Water Quality at the
beach and the ability of the beach to retain its Blue Flag status. During consultation, EAW stated
that the water quality component of the Blue Flag Award is based on achieving “Excellent” water
quality status under the Bathing Water Directive, which is based on the concentration of bacteria
in the water. Construction activities in Phase 1 do not take place near sewerage systems and are
not likely to lead to an increase in the concentration of faecal bacteria.
In addition to water quality, Blue Flag beach criteria include beach amenity and availability of
facilities. These may be affected by the presence of plant and material on the beach during
construction, resulting in access restrictions. Works are planned to start in late summer / early
autumn 2010 and continue for approximately 20 weeks. This could potentially impact of the
availability and use of the beach and facilities during both the 2010 and 2011 bathing seasons.
Overall, the impact on water quality is considered to be negligible.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Water and Sediment quality
Post construction, the material used to recharge the beach along the frontage will add to the
overall sediment budget of the system. Through natural washing and sorting of the recharge
material sediment will be released into the water column. The amount of sediment released is
likely to be too small to cause any significant impacts on water quality through turbidity.
A sand filled geotextile bag MPR could also be a potential source of sediment input post-
construction. Sediment could be released due to a number of reasons - damage from
boat/surfboard collisions, storm events, vandalism, failure of the geotextile material or natural
wear and tear over the lifetime of the Scheme. The potential impacts depend on the quantity and
particle size of the sediment released.
Should the MPR be made of sand filled geotextile bags, it is suggested that diver inspections are
carried out annually for the first 10 years to assess the overall structural integrity and the condition
of the geotextile bags. Assuming no significant damage occurs during this initial 10-year period,
the time between inspections could be extended to 3 years for the remainder of the 50 year
estimated life span the MPR.
The volume of sediment lost from a sand filled geotextile MPR is likely to be too small to cause
any significant impacts on water quality through turbidity.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 24 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Bathing Water Quality will continue to be monitored throughout the bathing season by the EAW.
If the MPR were constructed of rock, it would not be a potential source of sediment input to the
environment.
Overall, the post phase 1 construction impact upon water quality is considered negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Water and Sediment quality
It is not possible to determine what the baseline water quality will be in the future. The
assessment of impacts for future phases of construction has been carried out using the baseline
water quality.
During construction of future phases, the potential impacts are similar to those for the construction
of Phase 1, however, risks associated with the construction of a MPR (either of sand filled
geotextile bags or rock) are not relevant to future phases. Mitigation measures to take during the
construction of future phases are, therefore, similar to those outlined for the construction of
Phase1.
Based on existing information, the impacts of constructing future phases on water and sediment
quality are considered to be the same as those for Phase 1 – negligible.
Post construction impacts to Water and Sediment quality
Post construction and during operation of the Scheme some of the sediment from the beach
nourishment will be released into the water column from the natural washing and sorting of the
beach recharge material. However, the amount released is likely to be too small to cause any
significant impacts on water quality through turbidity. The impact is therefore considered to be
negligible.
Sediment quality is not considered to be affected as a result of the Scheme (negligible).
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Water and Sediment quality
Constructing a managed realignment option along the northern part of the shore would result in
similar impacts to those arising in the construction of future phases of the Scheme.
Post construction, managed realignment would result in the inundation of an area of land,
including a car park and part of the golf course. Erosion of the area will lead to an increase in
sediment in the water column, however, this is unlikely to impact on water quality unless there are
contaminants in the soil.
The land in the area could contain some contaminating e.g. from oils / fuel spills, insecticide /
pesticide use, etc. in the soil. Prior to implementing the retreat, testing of the soil should be
undertaken. Should any areas of contaminated soil exist, removal and disposal of contaminated
soil should take place before any managed realignment takes place.
Based on existing information and ensuring that suitable the recommended mitigation measures
outlined above are put in place, the impact on water quality is considered to be negligible.
Decommissioning impacts to Water and Sediment quality
It is assumed that decommissioning of a sand filled geotextile MPR would require the geotextile
bags to be deliberately split open. This would result in an increase in suspended sediment in the
water around the structure and an increase in the overall sediment budget. Sand contained in the
bags will have been tested prior to use and will contain no contaminants. Once released into the
sea, the sand should dissipate relatively quickly by natural water movement.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 25 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Impacts of sediment release on coastal processes and on marine ecology are considered in
above.
Sediment quality is unlikely to be affected during decommissioning of a sand filled geotextile MPR
(negligible).
Overall the impact of decommissioning a sand filled geotextile MPR is, therefore considered to be
minor adverse and short term.
Decommissioning a rock MPR would require removal of the rocks. Agreement of appropriate
working practices between CCC, CCW, EAW and the contractor will be required prior to
decommissioning e.g. following Environment Agency Pollution Prevention Guidance 21 and
Contractor Best Practice.
Sediment quality is unlikely to be affected during decommissioning of a sand filled geotextile MPR
(negligible).
The quantity of sediment released in to the water column is unlikely to be sufficient to have a
significant impact upon the water quality. The impact is therefore considered to be negligible.
Noise and Vibration
Phase 1 construction impacts to Noise and Vibration
Local residents and businesses in the properties located on and directly behind the shingle ridge
will be adversely impacted by construction and delivery noise, as they will be immediately
adjacent to the main working area. Pedestrians, beach users and surfers in the immediate vicinity
will also be adversely impacted by delivery and construction noise.
Noisy activities will include the general movement of plant and machinery (such as excavators,
bulldozers and dump trucks), delivery of rocks by road or marine vessels, filling of geotextile bags
(if MPR constructed from geotextile bags) the placement of rocks, beach nourishment and delivery
of other smaller materials by road.
During the spring/summer tourist season, the number of visitors to Borth increases and thus the
level of background noise is likely to increase.
Residents in properties along any road transport delivery route may also be impacted by the noise
generated by additional traffic movements.
Ynyslas, the golf course and caravan parks are a significant distance away from the Phase 1
works and thus area less likely to be impacted.
With appropriate mitigation measures in place, the residual impact is considered to be moderate
adverse and short term.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Noise and Vibration
Following construction there will be no impacts to noise levels. The impact is therefore considered
to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Noise and Vibration
The assessment and mitigation of potential impacts during construction of future phases is likely
to be the same as that during construction of Phase 1. The amount of construction works and
associated deliveries required during future phases is much less than needed during Phase 1.
Future phases of construction will move progressively north, away from Borth and its associated
residents and businesses, and thus the number of people likely to be disturbed may decrease.
However, during these subsequent Phases, construction works will move closer to Ynyslas, the
golf course and caravan parks.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 26 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Based on current understanding and ensuring that recommended mitigation measures are
implemented, the impacts from any future during the construction of future phases are considered
to result in moderate adverse, short term impacts.
Post construction impacts to Noise and Vibration
Following construction of future phases, there will be no impacts to noise levels. No impacts to
noise levels would arise following a managed realignment option at Ynyslas. The impact is
therefore considered to be negligible.
Decommissioning impacts to Noise and Vibration
Any future decommissioning activities will require the use of plant, machinery and vehicles to
remove materials. This is assumed to entail similar noisy activities to those for the construction of
Phase 1. As such, mitigation measures similar to those indicated for Phase 1 shall also be
required. Post decommissioning, impacts to noise levels are considered to be negligible.
Landscape and Visual Amenity
Phase 1 construction impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
Potential impacts during construction of Phase 1 will arise from construction activities, the delivery
and storage of materials (by road and / or sea), the use of plant, and the establishment of site
compounds.
The works will also require the temporary restriction of access to areas of the public beach which
may negatively affect movement patterns. It is likely that the character of the site would be altered
during construction, due to the nature of a construction site, which is an incongruous feature in the
established local urban area affecting the coastal setting and existing site use.
Landscape impacts may arise during the construction and /or operational phases of the proposed
development and may impact on the following potential landscape resources: site vegetation, land
cover and land form; the landscape character of the area; and the existing site use.
The temporary use of site compounds, the storage and use of construction equipment and
vehicles and the importing of rock and other materials for construction of the proposed MPR, rock
groynes and breakwaters would result in a change in the landscape resources of the site during
construction. These impacts are anticipated as being moderate adverse and temporary.
The proposals would result in an adverse change in the landscape character of the local area due
to the introduction of construction activities into a reasonably peaceful landscape
These impacts would have a limited degree of exposure on the wider area due to the existing
urban nature of the local area and the site’s visual containment within it. Outside the immediate
construction site and site compounds, within the wider Borth-Ynyslas frontage, the works are
considered to be moderate adverse and temporary.
The proposals may result in noticeable detrimental change in the land use of the site during
construction due to restricted access and potential inconvenience to the beach and promenade
areas. Impacts on the landscape resources throughout construction phases are considered to be
moderate to substantial adverse on a local scale and temporary.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
Post-construction of Phase 1, it is anticipated that there will be a notable alteration in the physical
layout of the defences impacting on the land form of the beach however, the overall reduction in
number of groynes and removal of derelict structures is likely to improve the existing character.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 27 5037097-830/70/DG/046
The MPR and breakwaters are substantial new structures being introduced into the existing
seascape; however they will be contained largely below the water level and will be only partially
exposed during periods of low tide.
The removal and replacement of groynes, the proposed MPR and breakwaters will prevent
erosion and displacement of the beach itself, which in turn will help counteract the adverse
impacts of the presence of these new structures. The beach will also benefit from areas of beach
nourishment.
Due to the nature of the site there is limited existing vegetation that will be affected by the
proposals. The impacts on the landscape and landform are considered to be slight beneficial
and permanent.
The introduction of a MPR, breakwaters and rock groynes will have a moderate adverse impact on
the local landscape character due to the introduction of incongruous elements into the area.
However, sensitive scheme planning, the removal of dilapidated timber groynes and beach
nourishment, would also result in a positive change.
The proposals have the potential to have a favourable effect on the land use of the site due to the
improved amenity of the beach areas. The reduced number of groynes made possible by the
introduction of the breakwaters, rock groynes and MPR and any resulting improved surf may
result in increased footfall to the area, in addition to the improved functional ability of the coastal
defences themselves. As such, the impacts on the landscape resources throughout the
operational phase are expected to be slight beneficial.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
The construction of further rock breakwaters and rock groynes during future phases are likely to
have similar impact on landscape and visual amenity as those outlined above during construction
of Phase 1.
Post construction impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
The whole Scheme proposals would result in both adverse and beneficial changes to the
landcover and use of the site. There will be a notable alteration in the physical layout of the
defences. The breakwaters and rock groynes are substantial new structures being introduced into
the existing seascape; however they will be contained largely below the water level and will be
only partially exposed during periods of low tide.
The overall reduction in number of groynes and removal of derelict structures is likely to improve
the existing character. As such, the impacts on the landcover and landform resources post
construction of future phases are expected to be slight beneficial.
The introduction of new rock structures along the whole frontage or a combination of rock groynes
will have a moderate adverse impact on the local landscape character due to the introduction of
incongruous elements into the area and a physical change to the current situation.
The removal of dilapidated timber groynes and the addition beach nourishment would also result
in a positive change due to the remedying of the poor condition of the existing coastal defences,
improving their functionality and preventing further erosion and flooding which is detrimental to the
landscape character of the area.
Overall, the impacts on the landscape character of the area post construction of future phases are
expected to be slight beneficial and permanent.
The proposals have the potential to have a favourable effect on the land use of the site during
operations due to the improved amenity of the beach areas. The reduced number and length of
groynes made possible by the introduction of shorter rock groynes will also be beneficial. As
such, the impacts on the landscape post construction of the whole Scheme are expected to be
slight beneficial and permanent.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 28 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
Any future retreat at the northern end of this scheme will invite erosion of the existing timber
groynes and beach area up to the retreat itself. Initially this erosion will have an adverse impact
but the operation of the retreat preventing further erosion will in the long term counterbalance its
presence. As such, the impacts on the landscape resources in the operational phases are
expected to be slight beneficial.
Decommissioning impacts to Landscape and Visual Amenity
The decommissioning of the scheme would likely result in both adverse and beneficial changes to
the landscape character, landcover and use of the site. The removal of the substantial rock
structures will notably alter the physical layout of the beach. The decommissioning works
themselves with the presence of plant and construction traffic will have adverse impacts similar to
those set out for construction impacts. Due to their more prominent visibility compared to the
predominantly submerged MPR and breakwaters, the removal of the rock groynes will have the
greater visual and landscape impact; however the removal of each of the separate elements will
have their own impacts.
The removal of the anthropogenic features: the rock groynes, MPR and breakwaters are likely to
initially have positive impacts upon the landcover and landform. However, without any coastal
protection, the beach will be threatened by erosion and Lower Borth without any defence will be at
risk to flooding. As such, the impacts on the landscape resources from decommissioning the
coastal defences without replacement are expected to be moderate adverse and permanent.
The removal of the rock structures along the whole frontage of Borth-Ynyslas will have a moderate
beneficial impact on the local landscape character due to the removal of incongruous elements
from the area and a physical change to the current situation. However, their removal will also
mean loss of their functionality and ability to prevent further erosion and flooding which will be
detrimental to the landscape character of the area.
Overall, the impacts on the landscape character of the area during and post decommissioning are
expected to be moderate adverse and permanent.
The decommissioning of the proposals will have both negative and positive effects on the land use
of the site. The removal of the MPR and loss of subsequent surf will see a reduction in number of
surf and associated users of the beach; however this will be counterbalanced by the short term
benefits of removal of the groynes resulting in a more open and natural beach area for a wider
range of users. Over the long term any subsequent erosion of the beach will have detrimental
impacts on land use and potentially jeopardise certain interdependent important amenities and
attractions to the area, including the local public rights of way and Borth and Ynyslas Golf Club.
The impacts on the land use during and after decommissioning of the whole scheme are expected
to moderate adverse and permanent.
The potential impacts to visual amenity from decommissioning the Scheme are similar to those set
out during the construction of the Scheme (see above).
Tourism and Recreation
Phase 1 construction impacts to Tourism and Recreation
Tourists holidaying in and visiting Borth are likely to experience disturbance as a result of the
construction, from noise, visual impacts and the presence and movement of machinery and
vehicles to and from the beach.
The construction work on the beach and in the water will also impact recreational activities
enjoyed by tourists. Tourists and residents are also likely to be affected by the increased traffic
associated with the construction process and loss of parking areas, which will be used as site
compound and storage areas.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 29 5037097-830/70/DG/046
The disturbance experienced could cause people to cut short their holidays or even be
discouraged from visiting at all. Construction activities during late summer / early autumn 2010
will mean that the main tourism period will be affected, with the potential for financial
consequences to businesses, such as bed and breakfast accommodation, caravan parks, pubs,
cafes and shops.
Recreational beach activities are likely to be affected during the construction of Phase 1 due to the
presence of plant and machinery on the beach, restricting access to certain areas and causing
similar noise and nuisance impacts to those outlined above for tourism. Beach and access
restrictions will be confined to the immediate area around the works in Lower Borth, therefore
affecting all the activities that take place here. The remainder of the beach north of the works will
remain unrestricted, providing plenty of beach area for enjoyment. Activities such as kite
buggying at Ynyslas or the use of the golf course are unlikely to be affected.
Water-based activities will also be affected during the construction of Phase 1. It is likely that
water-based activities will be prohibited, or at least restricted, in the immediate area of the works
for safety reasons. The remainder of the sea along the frontage, north of the works will remain
unrestricted, providing plenty of space for water-based recreation, including surfing, kite surfing,
windsurfing, swimming, rowing, boating, diving and jet-skiing.
Although access to the area of beach and sea that the Borth Outdoor Education Centre normally
uses for its water sports will be prohibited during the construction of Phase 1, the area of beach to
the north, and access to the sea from there, will not be affected by construction activities.
Borth Rowing Club sometimes uses the Borth slipway. As such, the club / competitions could be
affected by restrictions to the slipway, beach and sea area around the construction area. It is
possible that competitions could still take place further north along the frontage, outside of the
restricted sea area, assuming the boats can be launched directly from the beach.
It is essential that the Borth slipway remains fully open for use by the RNLI to enable their training
and search and rescue operations to continue throughout the entire construction period. The
contractor will ensure that the slipway is not obstructed and that the path of the lifeboat to and
from the slipway (either on land or in the sea) remains clear at all times.
With the recommended mitigation measures in place, impacts are considered to be moderate
adverse and short term.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Tourism and Recreation
Following construction Lower Borth will be provided with improved protection from erosion and
flooding. The protection of the village will benefit its tourism industry through the protection of
holiday accommodation and services. The presence of the MPR may also attract more visitors,
potentially improving the tourism potential of Borth. The overall impact of the scheme on tourism
is considered to be moderate beneficial and medium term.
Maintenance of the scheme will be required and holidaymakers will experience some general
disturbance from these activities. However, maintenance of the MPR will only be undertaken
approximately every 5 years and maintenance recharge of the shingle berm is not anticipated until
after the construction of the whole Scheme.
The scheme will provide a number of recreational benefits to beach users such as a more
sheltered and stable beach for recreation, improved access along the beach, increased area for
beach activities and a wider shingle beach.
The MPR has been designed to improve the surfing amenity at Borth in the lee of the reef. In
addition to improving conditions for surfers, the MPR will also create conditions favourable to
windsurfers. The sheltered conditions in the lee of the reef will aid them in launching safely and
allow them to pick up speed before hitting the surf for wave jumping. User conflict between
surfers and windsurfers is likely to be minimal since conditions favourable to surfing are unsuitable
for windsurfing (ASR, 2003).
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 30 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Other benefits to water recreation arising from the scheme are likely to include calmer waters in
the lee of the reef and breakwaters, which are more favourable to swimming, and the
enhancement of marine habitats by the presence of the new structures may encourage diving and
snorkelling. Should diving and snorkelling become popular, particularly around the MPR, CCC will
have to ensure appropriate signage and management is put in place to avoid user conflict
between divers/snorkelers and surfers/windsurfers.
It is likely that the calmer waters in the lee of the reef, the increased beach width and the waves
generated by the MPR will have a minor beneficial and medium term impact upon the Borth
Outdoor Education Centre and the activities it runs.
Borth Rowing Club indicated that it could practice along the frontage more frequently if the MPR
creates more sheltered conditions in the lee of the reef and reduced wave energy on the Borth
slipway.
Launching from the Borth slipway will resume following construction, and vessels will be able to
navigate around the MPR and breakwaters. The buoyed channel and speed restriction area
should be reviewed post construction of the MPR to determine if revisions to the current
arrangements are needed.
The scheme will not impact on existing RNLI navigation routes or the frequency of search and
rescue operations and thus the impact will be negligible.
Following construction, the maintenance works could cause some disruption to recreational
activities. However, as described earlier, the frequency of the works will be minimal. Signs and
fencing will be used where appropriate for any maintenance activities. The impacts are therefore
considered to be minor adverse and temporary (limited to period of works only).
Construction of future phases - impacts to Tourism and Recreation
The construction of future phases is likely to have similar impacts to those arising during the
construction of Phase 1, however each future phase requires less construction activity than Phase
1.
Phase 2 works are likely to disturb a greater number of people than the other future phases, as
they will be undertaken along a stretch of frontage with a greater number of residential properties,
tourist accommodation, pubs and shops.
Impacts to water-based recreation are likely to be similar to those during the construction of Phase
1, however, impacts associated with the construction of the MPR, which impact on water users,
are not relevant to future phases. Latter phases of work may also be able to access the beach by
an alternate route i.e. not via the slipway at lower Borth, thus reducing the degree of impacts on
recreational users and the RNLI.
Future phases of work will, however, have greater potential to disturb users of the golf course and
residents of the caravan parks further north along the frontage. Vehicular access through the golf
course, particularly for Phase 4, could also impact on users of the golf course.
The residual impacts during the construction of Phase 2 on tourism and recreation are considered
to be minor - moderate adverse, and short term. If construction materials for future phases are
delivered by road (Delivery Option B), there will be a negligible impact on water based-recreation.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 31 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post construction impacts to Tourism and Recreation
Following construction of future phases, a greater area of Borth will be provided with greater flood
protection than at present. Access along the beach will also be improved by removing the
dilapidated timber groynes from that length of the frontage. This could improve the use for the
beach for activities such as kite buggying. Increased use of the beach by some or all activities
could, however, result in conflict between different groups of beach users. The impacts on
tourism and recreation are considered to be minor to moderate beneficial. No additional
impacts to water based recreation are anticipated (negligible).
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Tourism and Recreation
At this stage in the outline design, the precise location and dimensions of any managed
realignment are not known. Construction activities would have similar impacts to those generated
during the construction of Phase 4 (see above). Impacts to water based recreation are likely to be
negligible, due to these construction works not taking place in the water or affecting access to the
water. Impacts to users of the golf course would be similar to those experienced during
construction of Phase 4 (see above), however, the construction of a setback defence would lead
to the loss of an area of the golf course, having a moderate adverse impact on users.
The construction of the set back defence is also likely to impact on users of the coastal path,
which crosses the golf course onto the beach near Renfrew Drive.
A managed realignment option at Ynyslas would impact on the coastal path and the golf course.
The area available for beach recreation and water based recreation will not change greatly and
the impact on beach and water users is likely to be negligible.
Decommissioning impacts to Tourism and Recreation
The decommissioning works would have similar impacts to those generated during the
construction processes.
The removal of the MPR, rock breakwaters and rock groynes will leave Borth exposed to greater
wave energy, which is likely to result in erosion of the beach in front of the village (further
decreasing the village’s coastal protection) and increased incidences of flooding, affecting roads,
houses, businesses and schools. Many of the properties currently providing accommodation to
visitors and tourists will need to be removed / relocated.
Any increased recreational amenity provided by the MPR will be removed, potentially returning
conditions to their current state. As such, the area may become less attractive to surfers and
windsurfers.
Overall impacts to tourism and recreation could potentially be major, adverse and long term.
Fishing
Phase 1 construction impacts to Fishing
There are unlikely to be any impacts on the commercial fisheries during construction of Phase 1
since both the fishing grounds and vessels are a considerable distance away from the site of
construction and none of the commercial fishing vessels launch from the slipway in Borth.
There are likely to be some impacts to recreational fishing/angling since the presence of plant and
construction activities on the beach will restrict access to areas of the beach in the immediate area
around the works in Lower Borth and will prohibit those wishing to fish within them. The
remainder of the beach north of the works will remain unrestricted and recreational angling
activities in these areas are unlikely to be affected.
Overall, the impact on commercial and recreational fisheries during construction of Phase 1 has
been determined to be minor adverse.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 32 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Fishing
Anglers will be able to continue to use the beach following construction, although the new rock
structures may restrict the area available to cast their lines and will result in a small reduction in
beach area. There will also be a small loss of subtidal area due to the footprint of the MPR. The
removal of the existing timber groynes will affect fixed netting from the beach, since the groynes
will no longer be available as the landward anchor along the frontage included within Phase 1,
however, it is possible to use a land anchor instead.
There is also the potential for the MPR to have beneficial impacts to recreational fishing and
angling through the creation of a new structure that can be colonised by algae and marine
benthos, providing a feeding ground and a refuge for fish and shellfish. This may increase the
number and type of fish available for recreational and commercial fishing.
The potential increase in beach and water users resulting from the MPR and improved beach
amenity could impact both people wishing to fish from the beach through conflict with other users
and/or disturb fish close to shore. Increased beach use is likely to be restricted to the area of the
MPR.
Overall, the impact to commercial and recreational fisheries post construction of Phase 1 is
considered to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Fishing
The potential impacts to commercial and recreational fisheries during the construction of future
phases are likely to be similar to those during the construction of Phase 1.
However, Phase 2 includes the stretch of beach from which one of the commercial fishing boats is
launched. It is likely that construction activities will impact the launching of this vessel from its
existing location
With the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures in place the residual impacts
on commercial and recreational fisheries during construction of future phases of the scheme have
been determined to be minor adverse in the immediate area of works and short term.
Post construction impacts to Fishing
The identification and mitigation of impacts to commercial and recreational fisheries post
construction of the whole Scheme are considered to be similar to those post construction of Phase
1. Residual impacts are considered to be negligible.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Fishing
The creation and functioning of a managed realignment option at Ynyslas is not considered to
have any impacts on commercial or recreational fishing over and above those identified above in
the creation and operation of the Scheme as a whole.
Decommissioning impacts to Fishing
Decommissioning works are likely to have similar impacts to those identified during the
construction phases.
Following the removal of the Scheme, the coastal processes and shoreline of the Borth to Ynyslas
frontage will change dramatically. The rolling back of the shoreline and the erosion of the beach
will potentially make it impossible to launch commercial vessels from the beach. Eventually, the
slipway will degrade and launching of vessels will not be possible. The potential re-establishment
of the outflow from the Leri is also likely to impact on the boat yard at Ynyslas and the vessels that
launch from here.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 33 5037097-830/70/DG/046
It is difficult to determine with any certainty how future removal of the Scheme will impact on the
coastline and the Dyfi Estuary. any impacts could potentially be major, adverse and long term.
Historic Environment
Phase 1 construction impacts to Historic Environment
The construction of Phase 1 could potential affect two known features, notably a section of the
historic coastal defences and the buried peat deposits.
The exact location of the section of historic coastal defence adjacent to Borth village is unknown.
However based on descriptions of the sections of coastal defences to the north of the village, it is
likely to be heavily eroded and embedded within the front face of the shingle ridge at the top of the
beach. This section of historic coastal defence could be disturbed during any excavation activities
undertaken during Phase 1, including during the construction of the rock structures and the
removal of the existing timber groynes.
The proposed scheme has the potential to disturb yet unknown archaeological remains through
the removal of material during excavation or the possible destruction of sensitive deposits caused
by the presence of heavy plant.
Although the likelihood of finds being present is low, disturbance to the peat deposits during
excavation for the rock structures and the removal of the existing timber groynes is likely and thus
there is potential for disturbance / damage to any features present.
Overall, the impacts are considered minor adverse and long term, but limited to the immediate
areas of excavation.
Post Phase 1 construction impacts to Historic Environment
Post construction, Phase 1 has the potential to affect unknown archaeological remains on the
seabed through alterations to the coastal processes operating along the frontage. Impacts to
coastal processes are, however, considered to be negligible (see above). Knock on impacts to
historic environment features are, therefore, also considered to be negligible.
Construction of future phases - impacts to Historic Environment
The construction of future phases could directly affect several known features; two sections of
historic coastal defences/breakwater, the wrecks of several unknown vessels and a medieval fish
trap. The sections of coastal defence/breakwater are embedded within the front face of the
shingle ridge at the top of the beach. These sections of coastal defence could be disturbed during
excavation for the rock structures and the removal of the timber groynes.
The wrecks of the unknown vessels are likely to be buried beneath the sand on the lower shore
and could potentially be disturbed during excavation works to build the rock structures, removal of
the timber groynes or by plant tracking across the lower beach.
The medieval fish trap is located approximately 500m from the beach and is unlikely to be directly
impacted during construction works.
A number of archaeological finds have also been made along the beach. Although the artefacts
have been removed, there is the possibility of further artefacts being found.
The assessment of potential impacts upon unknown archaeological features during the
construction of future phases is considered to be similar to that relating to the construction of
Phase 1.
Overall, impacts on historic environment features are considered minor adverse.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 34 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Post construction impacts to Historic Environment
The proposed scheme has the potential to affect known and unknown archaeological remains on
the seabed through alterations to the coastal processes operating along the frontage. This could
result in an increase in scour or erosion affecting any remains on the seabed or within exposed
peat deposits. Impacts to coastal processes are, however, considered to be negligible (see
above). Knock on impacts to historic environment features are, therefore, also considered to be
negligible.
Possible Managed Realignment at Ynyslas - impacts to Historic Environment
There are no additional known historic environment features within the area proposed for possible
managed realignment. The creation and operation of a managed realignment option at Ynyslas is
not considered to have any impacts over and above those identified in the construction and
operation of future phases.
Decommissioning impacts to Historic Environment
The works required to decommission the Scheme are considered to have similar impacts to those
arising during the construction works (see above).
Following the decommissioning, the coastal processes will alter causing a breach(es) in the
shingle ridge, roll back of the shore and changes in sediment movement. These impacts could
have a knock on effect on the historic environment, causing buried features to be uncovered and,
potentially damaged. Should historic environment features be uncovered, this could provide an
opportunity for study and currently unknown features may be revealed.
The predicted changes to coastal processes are, however, uncertain making it difficult to predict
how known historic environment features could be impacted. Impacts could be major adverse
and long term.
Inter-relationship between the above and in-combination with other projects
CCC are undertaking a programme of refurbishment to the upper and lower timber-r breastwork
along the southern end of the Borth frontage, in the same area as the Phase 1 works for the
proposed Scheme. The refurbishment will comprise bolting new timbers to the front of the existing
breastwork upright timbers and replacing any rotten / work timber coping along the top of the
breastworks. CCC will be undertaking the design and construction of the refurbishment. The
refurbished timber breastworks will not be any higher than the existing breastwork.
The timber breastwork refurbishments are considered to be minor. The amount of material, plant
and staff required to undertake the works are relatively small. Once completed, the timber
breastworks will have a beneficial impact on the visual amenity of the immediate area, having
replaced the rotten timber coping currently visible along the southern end of the Borth frontage. In
addition, the refurbished breastworks will have improved the flood defence functionality and will
contribute to the functioning of the Scheme by holding the rear of the shingle ridge in place.
Other than the timber breastwork upgrading that is being undertaken by CCC, there are no other
coastal protection schemes known to be taking place along the frontage or to the north or south of
the proposed Scheme that could contribute to and increase the magnitude of the impacts from the
proposed Scheme. A coast protection and improvement scheme is currently underway on the
Gwynedd coast at Tywyn, to the north of the Dyfi estuary. The Dyfi estuary is a natural break /
headland preventing the transport of sediment from North of the Dyfi Southwards, or vice versa.
There are no other known developments or projects planned along the Borth frontage.
In-combination impacts are, therefore, considered to be of no greater significance than the
individual and cumulative impacts identified for the Scheme.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 35 5037097-830/70/DG/046
Conclusions and Recommendations
The Scheme is considered to provide benefits to the residents and visitors of Borth by reducing
the impacts of coastal flooding and erosion and maintaining or improving the amenity value and
use of the beach and water for recreation over the life of the Scheme.
‘Significant impacts’ identified throughout the EIA process are considered to be those identified as
‘minor’, ‘moderate’ or ‘major’ and either ‘adverse’ or ‘beneficial’ and have been highlighted in the
summary table below. Impacts that have been identified as ‘negligible’ are not considered to be
significant.
The adverse impacts of the Scheme are, in general, localised in the area(s) of construction /
decommissioning works and short term i.e. lasting only as long as the construction /
decommissioning activity. Long term adverse impacts to the geological peat forest deposits are
possible in the immediate area of construction of the rock structures, particularly the rock
breakwaters. These impacts are not avoidable, but can be limited by ensuring that excavation
works are kept to a minimum. Post construction impacts of Phase 1 and of the whole Scheme
are, in general, considered to be negligible or beneficial.
Recommendations for managing the environmental impacts identified have been made within this
ES. The implementation of these measures will minimise any adverse environmental impacts and
could increase beneficial impacts to some receptors. A draft Environmental Action Plan (EAP)
has been produced (see Section 8).
Given the uncertainty surrounding some of the post Phase 1 impacts and future impacts post
construction of the whole Scheme, increasing the level of knowledge associated with the
construction of a MPR coastal defence scheme would provide benefits to the design of future
phases and the construction of similar schemes elsewhere in Wales or the UK. Consideration
should be given to the collection of data relating to the following:
• Beach levels, sediment movement and functioning of the MPR
• Biological colonisation of the MPR (sub-tidal monitoring)
• Tourism / visitor numbers, particularly surfing and beach users
Monitoring of beach levels, sediment movement and of the biological colonisation of the MPR are
considered to be key recommendations post Phase 1 construction.
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme
5037097-830/70/DG/046
36
Summary of impacts
Phase 1 construction Post Phase 1
construction
Construction of
future phases Post construction
Managed
realignment at
Ynyslas
Decommissioning
Geology, geomorphology
and coastal processes
Geology Negligible - minor adverse
Irreversible
Negligible - minor adverse
Irreversible
Negligible - moderate adverse
Irreversible
Negligible - moderate beneficial
Negligible - moderate adverse
Irreversible
Negligible - minor beneficial
Coastal processes Minor adverse Short term
Minor adverse Short term
Minor adverse Major adverse
Coastal processes –
sand Negligible Negligible Major adverse
Coastal processes –
shingle Negligible Negligible Major adverse
Geomorphology Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Major adverse
Ecology
Nature conservation
sites Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Adverse
Major adverse Irreversible
Terrestrial ecology Negligible - minor adverse
Reversible Negligible
Negligible - minor adverse
Reversible Negligible
Minor adverse Long term
Major adverse Irreversible
Intertidal ecology Minor adverse Short term Reversible
Negligible - minor beneficial
Medium term
Minor adverse Short term Reversible
Negligible - minor beneficial
Medium term
Minor adverse, short term – Beneficial,
medium term Negligible
Subtidal ecology Negligible
Minor beneficial Medium term
Negligible Negligible Negligible Minor adverse
Short term
Marine mammals Minor adverse Short term
Negligible Minor adverse
Short term Negligible
Negligible - minor adverse, short term
Minor adverse Short term
Fish Minor adverse
Short term
Negligible - minor beneficial
Medium term
Minor adverse Short term
Negligible Negligible - minor
adverse Short term
Minor adverse Short term
Birds Minor adverse
Short term Negligible
Minor adverse Short term
Negligible Negligible - minor
adverse Short term
Minor adverse Short term
Traffic and transport
Traffic Minor adverse
Short term Negligible
Minor - moderate adverse
Short term Negligible Negligible Unclear
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme
5037097-830/70/DG/046
37
Phase 1 construction Post Phase 1
construction
Construction of
future phases Post construction
Managed
realignment at
Ynyslas
Decommissioning
Parking Moderate – major
Short term Minor adverse -
moderate beneficial
Moderate – major adverse
Short term Negligible
Minor - moderate adverse
Long term Unclear
Water and Sediment quality
Suspended sediment Minor adverse
Short term Negligible Negligible Negligible
Negligible - minor adverse
Short term
Minor adverse Short term
Contaminants Negligible - minor adverse
Short term
Negligible Negligible minor
adverse Short term
Negligible Negligible - minor
adverse Short term
Negligible - minor adverse
Short term
Bathing water Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible
Noise Moderate adverse Short term
Negligible Moderate adverse
Short term Negligible
Moderate adverse Short term
Moderate adverse Short term
Landscape, seascape and
visual amenity
Landcover and landform Moderate adverse Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate adverse Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate adverse Permanent
Landscape character Moderate - substantial adverse
Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate - substantial adverse
Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate adverse Permanent
Land use Moderate - substantial adverse
Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate - substantial adverse
Temporary
Slight beneficial Permanent
Slight beneficial Permanent
Moderate adverse Permanent
Visual amenity Up to substantial adverse
Slight adverse Up to substantial
adverse Slight adverse - slight beneficial
Slight adverse - slight beneficial
Slight - substantial adverse
Tourism and recreation
Beach recreation Moderate adverse
Short term
Moderate adverse - moderate beneficial
Medium term
Minor - moderate adverse
Short term
Minor - moderate beneficial
Negligible Major adverse
Long term
Water based recreation Moderate adverse
Short term
Moderate adverse - moderate beneficial
Medium term
Minor - moderate adverse
Short term Negligible Negligible
Major adverse Long term
Fishing Minor adverse
Short term Negligible
Minor adverse Short term
Negligible Negligible - minor
adverse Short term
Major adverse Long term
Historic environment Minor adverse Long term
Negligible Minor adverse
Long term Negligible Negligible
Major adverse Long term
Environmental Statement
Borth Coast Defence Scheme 38 5037097-830/70/DG/046
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