Environmental Impact Assessment
Screening Report
for the
R558 Fenit Road Improvement
Proposals
at Gaynor’s bends,
Ballymakegoge, Co Kerry
Eoin Kelleher
Executive Planner and Ecologist
Environmental Assessment Unit
Kerry County Council
August 2017
Executive Summary
This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening Report has been prepared to
consider the requirement or otherwise of carrying out an EIA in respect of the R558
Fenit Road Improvement Proposals at Gaynor’s bends, Ballymakegoge, Co Kerry.
This screening exercise was undertaken in two stages. The first stage considered the
requirement for a mandatory EIA, while the second stage considered the
requirement or need for a sub-threshold EIA. As part of the sub-threshold screening
exercise, the potential for impacts on environmental sensitivities were considered in
addition to the interrelationship between those environmental sensitivities.
Following on from this, the formal EIA Screening Exercise was completed, in line with
the criteria set out in the EIA Directive (2014/52EU).
This report concludes that this is a sub-threshold type project which is not likely to
have a significant effect on the environment, either by itself or in combination with
other plans or projects, and that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is not
required in this instance.
1. Introduction
The Environmental Assessment Unit (Planning and Sustainable Development
Department) has been requested by the Operations Department of Kerry County
Council to assist the relevant authorities in forming an opinion as to whether or not
the proposed road improvement project should be subject to Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) and a subsequent Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) m/
Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR). Experience and rulings by the
European Court of Justice have shown that, in certain circumstances, small-scale
projects can have significant effects on the environment. This report comprises an
Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Report and will be taken into
consideration by the Competent Authority in its determination as to whether EIA is
required in this instance.
1.3 Legislative context
EIA legislation sets down the types of projects that may require an EIS. Annex I
defines mandatory projects that require an EIS and Annex II defines projects that are
assessed on the basis of set mandatory thresholds for each of the project classes.
The relevant threshold summaries of legislative requirements for EIA Screening for
road type developments are set out in Table 1 below.
Table 1 Summary of Legislative Requirements for EIA Screening – From the Roads
Act (1993–2016); based on the original format in the NRA Guidelines on EIA (2008).
Mandatory Regulatory Reference
(1) Construction of a motorway S. 50.—(1) (a)(i) of the
Roads Act, 1993-2016.
(2) Construction of a busway S. 50.—(1) (a)(ii) of the
Roads Act, 1993-2016.
(3) Construction of a service area S. 50.—(1) (a)(iii) of the
Roads Act, 1993-2016.
(4) Any
prescribed
type of
proposed
road
development
consisting of
the
construction
of a proposed
public road or
the
improvement
of an existing
public road,
namely:
The construction of a new road of
four or more lanes, or the
realignment or widening of an
existing road so as to provide
four or more lanes, where such
new, realigned or widened road
would be eight kilometres or
more in length in a rural area, or
500m or more in length in an
urban area;
The construction of a new bridge
or tunnel which would be 100
metres or more in length.
Article 8 of the Roads
Regulations, 1994 (Part V
Environmental Impact
Assessment)
Article 8 of the Roads
Regulations, 1994 (Part V
Environmental Impact
Assessment)
Sub-Threshold Regulatory Reference
(4) Where An Bord Pleanála considers that any
proposed road development (other than
development to which mandatory requirement
applies) consisting of the construction of a
proposed public road or the improvement of an
existing public road would be likely to have
significant effects on the environment, he shall
direct the road authority to prepare an
environmental impact statement in respect of
such proposed road development and the
authority shall comply with such direction.
S. 50.—(1) (b) of the
Roads Act, 1993 - 2016.
(5) Where a road authority considers that any
proposed road development (other than
development to which mandatory requirement
applies) consisting of the construction of a
proposed public road or the improvement of an
existing public road would be likely to have
significant effects on the environment, it shall
S. 50.—(1) (c) of the
Roads Act, 1993 - 2016.
inform the Board in writing and where the Board
concurs with the road authority he shall give a
direction to the road authority (as above).
(i) a European Site,
meaning
(I) a candidate site of
Community importance,
(II) a site of Community
importance,
(III) a candidate special
area of conservation,
(IV) a special area of
conservation,
(V) a candidate special
protection area, or
(VI) a special protection
area
(v) Land established or
recognised as a nature
reserve within the
meaning of section 15 or
16 of the Wildlife Act,
1976 (No. 39 of 1976)
(6) Where a proposed
road development
(other than
development to which
mandatory
requirement applies)
consisting of the
construction of a
proposed public road
or the improvement of
an existing public road
would be located on
certain environmental
sites, the road
authority concerned
shall decide whether
the proposed road
development would or
would not be likely to
have significant
effects on the
environment. The
sites concerned are:
(vi) Land designated as a
refuge for fauna under
section 17 of the Wildlife
Act, 1976 (No. 39 of
1976)
If the authority decides that the proposed road
development would be likely to have significant
effects, it shall inform An Bord Pleanála in writing
(as outlined in (6) above).
S. 50.—(1) (d) of the
Roads Act, 1993 – 2016.
1.4 Methodology
Following on from an outline of a project as described in Section 2 of this report, the
screening exercise will be outlined in two main stages. The first stage, which is
contained within Section 3 of this report considered the requirement for a
mandatory EIA. The second stage considered the requirement or need for a sub-
threshold EIA and is outlined within Section 4 of this report.
2. Project Description
he R558 while a regional roadway is recognised as being of strategic importance
within the Region (Table 5.1 South West Regional Planning Guidelines 2010). These
guidelines highlight its importance linking Fenit Port with the Tralee - Killarney linked
hub. It is a busy route, particularly in the summer season as it forms part of the ‘Wild
Atlantic Way’, a touring route of international renown. The following extract from
S5.5.14 of the Regional Guidelines indicates the Regional importance of the port and
its access roads:- ‘The maintenance and ongoing development of Fenit Port and its
access roads is a critical element of the Tralee/Killarney Hub infrastructure providing
an additional transportation linkage and facilitating existing industry in the area. In
addition, it is the maritime leisure and activity base of the Linked Hub. These roles
must be protected and sustainably developed to ensure the role of the Hub towns
expand to reach their potential’.
The existing carriageway in the vicinity of Gaynor’s bends, Ballymakegoge has been
identified as being sub-standard in terms of its width and alignment. This is
especially the case for port related heavy goods traffic including the extra long loads
associated with Liebherr Container Cranes Ltds who have a significant manufacturing
facility in Killarney.
This proposal involves the upgrade of the existing surface and the increase of the
carriageway width to 8m in addition to realignment. The length of the proposed
scheme is approx 905m. Improvement works also include the provision of 1m grass
verges and a working space either side between the grass verges and the proposed
boundary lines. Drainage channels and boundary treatment are also included. Also
provided for is 1 No. junction to serve the bypassed road. The proposed widening
will require contour re-profiling works to the west. Boundary treatment / fencing, a
mammal underpass, water quality protection measures and invasive species
management / landscaping, are provided for in line with best practice NRA (TII)
Guidelines.
Above: Proposed project location (not to scale)
Above: Proposed realignment (not to scale)
Above: Typical Cross section (not to scale)
3. Mandatory requirement for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
3.1 Mandatory requirements
The proposed scheme has been assessed in terms of the mandatory requirement for
an EIA based on the nature or scale of the development, as addressed in the EU
Directive 2014/52/EU and also the Roads Act 1993 - 2016. It is considered that the
proposed road scheme is not one which falls within the scope of this category. As
part of this the requirements laid out in Table 1 have been taken into account.
In particular it is noted that a roadway of 4 or more lanes is not proposed as part of
this proposal. It should be noted that mandatory EIA requirements for non-road
type development have also been considered and discounted in this instance. As
part of this infrastructure type projects listed in the Planning and Development
Regulations 2001, as amended and in Annex I and II of the EIA Directive as amended
were taken into account.
4. Sub-threshold requirement for an Environmental Impact Statement
4.1 legislative context and screening methodology
Where a proposed road development would be located on certain environmental
sites (see Table 1), the road authority shall decide whether the proposed road
development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. The key
issue, in the context of the possible need for EIA of sub-threshold development, is
whether or not such development is likely to have significant effects on the
environment.
The 2014 amending EIA Directive (2014/52EU) contains guidance for Member States
in terms of deciding whether or not a development is likely to have “significant
effects on the environment”. The guidance is provided by way of criteria set out in
Annex III of the consolidated Directive. The criteria are grouped under three
headings and are used to help in the screening process to determine whether a
development is likely to have a significant effect on the environment. The criteria for
determining whether a development would or would not be likely to have significant
effects on the environment are taken from Annex III of the Directive and are grouped
under the following three headings:-
1. Characteristics of the projects
2. Location of the projects
3. Type and Characteristics of the potential Impact
This EIA Screening was prepared having regard to the following guidance documents;
• 2001 European Commission. Guidance on EIA – Screening;
• 2003 Government Publications. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Guidance for Consent Authorities regarding Sub-threshold Development;
• 2002 Environmental Protection Agency. Guideline on the Information to be
contained in Environmental Impact Statements; and
• 2008 National Roads Authority. Environmental Impact Assessment of National
Road Schemes – A Practical Guide.
Having regard to the above and in order to inform screening evaluation,
consideration was firstly given to environmental sensitivities in the area and to the
potential for impacts on environmental particular aspects of the environment
(Section 4.2). This section has regard to the Environmental Topics as set out in the
EIA Directive as follows:-
• Population, Material assets, and Human Health,
• Biodiversity,
• Land and Soil,
• Water,
• Air and Climate,
• Landscape and Cultural heritage, including architectural and archaeological
aspects, and
• The interrelationship between the environmental topics.
Following on from this, the formal EIA Screening Exercise was completed, in line with
the criteria set out in the EIA Directive. This is contained within Section 4.3 of this
report.
4.2 Overview of potential impacts on environmental sensitivities
4.2.1 Population, Material Assets and Human Health
It is expected that this proposal will have a positive impact on population, material
assets and human health by relieving traffic congestion and improving road safety
and the accessibility of the area. Material assets will be significantly improved by way
of enhance provision of transport infrastructure. Loss of agricultural land will be
minimal.
This proposal would facilitate sustainable (port related) employment, which is a
factor in maintenance of health. In general the material well being and sense of
purpose that a job provides are beneficial to health.
Potential also exists, particularly at the construction stage for an amount of nuisance
associated with traffic disruption. However, any such impacts will be temporary in
nature and could be reduced by implementation of construction and traffic
management measures.
4.2.2 Biodiversity (inc Flora and Fauna)
As with any road development project, the proposal will result in habitat loss along
the footprint of the works area. However it is noted that the works will not encroach
on protected sites in this instance. The extent of the required works is also reduced
given that it is for the most part a road widening as opposed to a new road build
proposal. Use of the existing road corridor will ensure that any risks to biodiversity
interests are minimised.
It is noted that a Badger sett is located between the existing R558 and the coastline
at this location as outlined below and that there is an ‘at grade’ badger crossing
point to the west, accessing agricultural lands to the north. It is also noted that it is
proposed to locate a standard mammal crossing in line with NRA (TII) guidelines at
the existing ‘at grade’ badger crossing location so as to ensure safe and suitable
connectivity between the sett / coastline and agricultural lands to the north.
Above: Badger Sett location and existing roadside ‘at grade’ crossing point
It is noted that the works area is located outside of but in close proximity to Natura
2000 designations. Having regard to the conservation objectives for the Tralee Bay
Natura 2000 sites and the accompanying maps and supporting documents which
outline the known location of qualifying habitats within the SAC, impact on habitats
associated with the Natura 2000 network are considered to be unlikely. No
qualifying species of designated sites are likely to be impacted upon by way of this
proposal. It is noted that a Habitats Directive Assessment has been prepared in
support of the proposal which has concluded that significant effects on Natura 2000
sites are not likely in this instance.
Above: Natura 2000 sites adjoining the development site
Badger Sett Crossing
point
European Otter Lutra lutra
The coast at this location showed signs of otter activity as would be expected.
Coastal locations such as this constitute prime Otter habitat with a year round
abundance of resource requirements for the species. Habitat within the proposed
development site is less favourable consisting as it does of improved agricultural
grassland of low ecological value to the species.
Environmental Protection Measures: None required
Tralee Bay Complex SPA Birdlife
Lands are not wetlands or qualifying habitats for Tralee Bay Complex SPA Birdlife.
Similar coastal improved agricultural lands are located elsewhere in the vicinity.
Proposal unlikely to significantly impact on same.
Environmental Protection Measures: None required
Badger
Environmental Protection Measures:-
• Pre construction mammal surveying as per TII / NRA guidelines
• Mammal Fencing and underpasses as per TII / NRA guidelines
Chough
Rock outcrop area to the west of the scheme is suitable Chough habitat. Works in
the vicinity of same are small scale in nature. This area has previously being widened.
No impact likely.
Environmental Protection Measures: None required
4.2.3 Land and Soil
The total land take required for the project is insignificant within the context of
similar resources in the area. Additional soil sealing will occur. Proposal will not
result in or exacerbate soil erosion elsewhere. Soil in the area is generally of
productive quality, however there will be opportunities for re-use of such soil
elsewhere.
Lands in the vicinity have not been classified as susceptible to landslides in the GSI
landslide susceptibility viewer and there are no geologically protected areas located
in the area. Construction materials would be sourced from authorized sources and
any excess fill will be disposed of at authorized locations. It is noted that an amount
of local excavation will be required, particularly to the west of the proposed scheme,
where rock is located close to the surface.
Bedrock at this location consists of bedded bioclastic limestone which forms part of
the Cloonagh Limestone Formation Rock Unit Type. 3 No. Geological Interest Sites
are located in the vicinity of Gaynor’s bends. These Geological Sites have outlined
buffer areas as opposed to fixed boundaries as they have not been formally
surveyed.
1. Oyster Hill (under both IGH8 Lower Carboniferous and IGH3 Palaeontology
themes) is an Asbian-aged mudmound with striped limestone and fauna (include
foreshore area). The IGH7 theme report, outlines:
‘Oyster Hill rises to c. 100 feet with a steep north face of laminates forming an
anticline which are repeated at the shore line forming part of the Sammy’s Rock
Formation; with further exposure in a quarry exposure of the Carboniferous reef and
slumped striped limestones along the Fenit Road. The type section of the Sammy’s
Rock Formation is found is found at Oyster Hill and consists of a series of coarsely
clastic limestones with interbedded striped limestones. The fauna together with the
unusual nature of the striped limestones make Oyster Hill a suitable candidate for a
Natural Heritage Area.’
2. Kilfenora (IGH12 Mesozoic-Caenozoic) Saprolite: Cliff exposure at Kilfenora near
Fenit. Lower Carboniferous intensely weathered limestones. Some chalk also found
there.
3. Fenit - Kilfenora – Spa (IGH7 Quaternary, IGH14 Fluvial and Lacustrine
Geomorphology) mass wasting: solifluction deposits, Fenitian Stage (the last
glaciation).
Above: Location of Geological Special Interest Sites in the vicinity of Gaynor’s
Bends (R558 Tralee to Fenit Harbour).
Proposed development would not impact on outcrop areas or the foreshore and any
new cuttings would provide new information which would be a positive impact on
Geological Heritage.
4.2.4 Water aspects
Key impacts during any construction works project relate to the potential for
pollution of watercourses / groundwater from works and or spillages. No
watercourses are located within or downstream of the works area. No potential
exists for loss of river corridors, river or riparian habitats or to potential spawning
beds in this instance. It is noted that standard best practice water quality protection
measures have been incorporated into the proposal including ‘Control of Water
Pollution from Construction Sites – Guidance for Consultants and Contractors’
published by CIRIA (2001) and NRA Guidelines (2006). This proposal is not in itself
considered to be a particularly flood vulnerable one and is not located within a
known flood risk area.
4.2.5 Air/Climatic factors
It is considered that air quality in the area is not likely to be significantly impacted
upon by way of this proposal. Any such impacts would be temporary and localised
and it is noted that standard dust control measures have been incorporated into the
proposal. Improved alignments can be associated with reduced energy demand and
associated emissions as the need to break and accelerate is reduced. The potential
exists for construction stage noise and vibration to occur. However given the scale
location and temporary nature of works and distance to potentially sensitive
receptors. NRA / TII guidelines will be adhered to as part of the proposal.
4.2.6 Landscape and cultural heritage including architectural aspects
This proposal is located within an area zoned for Rural General Development and
would not impinge on either Prime or Secondary Amenity designations or listed
protected views. There are no protected structures or Architectural Conservation
Areas in the vicinity. Road widening has taken place at this location a number of
times in the past. No known cultural features of significance are likely to be impacted
upon by the proposal.
• The predicted magnitude of change in landscape resource is low consistent with
minor alterations to character.
• The predicted significance of landscape impact for the LCA is slight i.e. there will
be a partial or noticeable loss of elements of the landscape character and / or
medium term change.
• No significant visual impacts are considered to be likely.
• The proposed road improvement development will maintain seaward views.
Above: landscape designations in the area. Dark Green = secondary special amenity
zoning, Light Green = Prime Special Amenity Zoning.
4.2.7 Archaeological heritage The County Archaeologist has advised that while there are no monuments listed in RMP or
SMR that are directly impacted by the road widening/realignment, archaeological testing in
advance of construction is recommended on the basis of location (Gaynor's Bend
realignment is coastal and at the base of one of the larger waulsortian reefs in the area
which are now understood to be focii for prehistoric activity).
4.2.8 The interrelationship between the environmental topics
The greater the number of different aspects of the environment which are likely to
be affected and the greater the links between the effects, the more likely significant
effects may occur. Impact inter-relationships/interactions relate to the reactions
between impacts within a project and the inter-relationship between impacts
identified under one topic with impacts identified under another topic.
The consideration of impact inter-relationships and interactions provides an
opportunity to consider the overall impacts of a scheme that might not be
immediately apparent. All above receptors contribute to the distinctive character of
the area. Cumulative impacts on the suite of these features may be significant in
scale, nature and duration. The most important interactions in this case are
considered to be those between soil / geology and landscape and between ecology /
water quality. It is considered that the proposal as outlined contains sufficient
standard safeguards as integral components of the overall project in this regard.
4.3. Sub threshold development assessment
Having considered the above environmental factors, the aim of the next section is to
address likely impacts, if any on the environment by the implementation of the
proposed development having regard to the criteria set out in the EIA Directive, as
amended.
Criteria for determining whether the project would or would not be likely to have a
significant effect on the environment
1. Characteristics of projects
(a) The size and design of the
whole project
In essence this is a road widening and realignment
development. It seeks to increase the paved road
width 8m for a distance of 905m, with the
incorporation of 1m grass verges.
(b) Cumulation with other
existing and/or approved
projects
It is noted that there are a number of existing and
proposed rural type developments in the area.
There are also proposals to widen the road by way
of setting back roadside boundaries at the Spa
village to the east.
Potential for cumulative impacts in relation to
landscape, loss or fragmentation of habitat, water
quality and road safety.
(c) The use of natural
resources, in particular land,
soil, water and biodiversity.
Natural resources will be required for the
construction of the roadway. However it is noted
that in this instance there will be opportunities to
source required fill on-site. There will be no
requirement for water abstraction for the proposed
development.
(d) The production of waste. The project includes an area of cut to the west. No
large-scale wastes generated.
(e) Pollution and nuisances. The construction of an infrastructure proposal such
as this could give rise to particular nuisances or
instances of pollution. During the construction
stage, there will be a risk of associated water
pollution via silt or hydrocarbons. There may also
be temporary disruption to existing traffic at certain
locations as would cause nuisance. Additional noise
associated with construction works may be
temporarily experienced locally in the vicinity – this
would be similar in character to road traffic /
agricultural machinery generated noise.
(f) The risk of major accidents
and/or disasters which are
relevant to the project
concerned, including those
caused by climate change, in
accordance with scientific
knowledge.
The risk of accidents associated with the
development would not cause unusual, significant
or adverse effects. Complex technologies or
substance use are not considered to be likely.
Standard health and safety precautions will be
required at design, construction and operation
stages. No hazardous activities are proposed which
would pose a significant risk to a habitats or the
environment.
(g) The risks to human health
(for example due to water
contamination or air
pollution).
None likely.
2. Location of projects
(a) The existing and approved
land use.
Existing: Transport and Agriculture
Approved land use: Rural General Development –
Kerry County Development Plan 2015-2021.
(b) The relative abundance,
availability, quality and
regenerative capacity of
natural resources (including
soil, land, water and
biodiversity) in the area and
its underground.
Soil to be removed generally of good quality, rock
to be removed limestone in nature. Opportunities
exist for use elsewhere and or disposed of at
authorised sites. Habitat type – improved
agricultural grassland, abundant in the area.
Regenerative capacity minimal as the surface of the
widened roadway will be sealed. Area affected
considered to be insignificant within the context of
the relative abundance of the soil, water, rock and
biodiversity resources in the area.
(c) The absorption capacity of
the natural environment,
paying particular attention to
the following areas:
(i) wetlands, riparian areas,
river mouths;
(ii) coastal zones and the
marine environment;
(iii)mountain and forest
areas;
(iv) nature reserves and parks;
(v) areas classified or
protected under national
legislation; Natura 2000
areas designated by
Member States pursuant
to Directive 92/43/EEC
and Directive
2009/147/EC;
(vi) areas in which there has
already been a failure to
meet the environmental
quality standards, laid
down in Union legislation
and relevant to the
project, or in which it is
considered that there is
such a failure;
(vii) densely populated
areas;
(viii) landscapes and sites of
historical, cultural or
archaeological
significance.
Wetlands are located in the wider area, associated
with Tralee Bay.
This proposal is located in the coastal zone
associated with Tralee Bay.
This adjoins the Tralee Bay and Magharees
Peninsula, West to Cloghane SAC (Site Code
002070) and the Tralee Bay Complex SPA (Site Code
004188) Natura 2000 sites. Tralee Bay also forms
part of a Nature reserve.
The landscape at this location is attractive and
coastal in nature, forming part of the ‘Wild Atlantic
Way’ touring route. The proposal is outside of
Special Amenity designations and is not listed as a
protected view.
There are no monuments listed in RMP or SMR that
are directly impacted by the road
widening/realignment. Notwithstanding this, the
area has potentially ‘unknown’ archaeology.
3. Type and characteristics of Potential Impact
The potential significant effects of the projects on the environment must be
considered in relation to the criteria set out in 1 & 2 above and having regard to the
factors specified in Article 3(1) (of the EIA Directive) taking into account aspects of
the impact as outlined in (a) to (h) below.
Article 3(1) Factors
a) population and human health;
b) biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under
Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC;
c) land, soil, water, air and climate;
d) material assets, cultural heritage and the landscape;
e) the interaction between the factors referred to in points (a) to (d).
(a) The magnitude and spatial
extent of the impact (for
example geographical area
and size of the population
likely to be affected).
The magnitude and spatial extent of impacts is
limited to the development site itself, its immediate
vicinity and road users in the area.
(b) The nature of the impact.
Population and human health impact
During the construction period road users may
experience traffic delays however on completion
increased accessibility of the area to a number of
different road users is likely to have positive
implications for the population of the wider area.
Biodiversity
• Habitat loss – loss of undesignated improved
agricultural grassland habitat of low ecological
value.
• Badger – potential for disturbance, alteration to
existing commuting routes / culverts.
• Birdlife / otter – potential for disturbance /
displacement.
Land / Landscape
This proposal will alter the landscape at this
location. In particular there will be loss of roadside
boundaries on the landward side of the scheme.
Area located within pNHA for geological heritage
interest.
Cultural heritage
Potential exists to uncover previously unknown
archaeology as part of the project.
Other / interacting impact
Other impacts are considered to be minor in nature
and do not have potential to significantly impact on
the environment, either by themselves or in
combination with other such impacts, plans or
projects.
(c) The transboundary nature
of the impact.
None. No cross border implications.
(d) The intensity and
complexity of the impact.
Population and human health impact
Negative impacts are associated with the
construction stage only and will have a low intensity
type impact ameliorated by standard traffic
management measures. Positive impacts thereafter
will have a intensely positive impact on the
population using the roadway, particularly port
related traffic.
Biodiversity
• Habitat loss. Habitat is of local importance.
• Badger impact – low intensity having regard to
the standard environmental protection
measures incorporated into the project, which
include the provision of mammal underpass and
fencing.
• Birdlife / otter – low intensity having regard to
nature, location and magnitude of proposed
works. Noise generated at construction stage
similar in nature to that generated from traffic
and agricultural machinery. The sea offers
considerable background noise much of the
time along the coastline within the designated
lands at this location.
Landscape
• The predicted magnitude of change in
landscape resource is low consistent with
minor alterations to character.
• The predicted significance of landscape impact
for the LCA is therefore slight i.e. there will be
a partial or noticeable loss of elements of the
landscape character and / or medium term
change.
• No significant visual impacts are considered to
be likely.
• The proposed road improvement development
will maintain seaward views.
• Proposal does not encroach on existing rock
outcrop or exposed coastal locations.
Cultural heritage
Standard archaeological testing and monitoring is
required. The possibility exists to uncover
previously unknown archaeology during the course
of the project.
These potential impacts are not considered to be
complex in nature.
(e) The probability of the
impact.
Population and human health impact
Traffic impacts – probably / near certain probability.
Negative impacts are associated with the
construction stage only. Positive impacts thereafter.
Biodiversity
• Habitat loss –high / near certain probability
• Badger impact – low / unlikely probability
having regard to the standard environmental
protection measures incorporated into the
project, which include the provision of mammal
underpass and fencing. Otters would be
expected to continue to access their territory
and would not be at increased risk of road
traffic related mortality.
• Birdlife / otter– low / unlikely probability.
Landscape
It is probable that the proposal will slightly alter the
landscape at this location.
Cultural heritage
It is unlikely that the project would impact on
cultural heritage if pre construction testing is
undertaken as outlined.
(f) The expected onset,
duration, frequency and
reversibility of the impact.
Population and human health impact
Construction stage traffic impact will be temporary
in nature coinciding with the construction phase of
the project. Operation stage traffic impact will be
long-term associated with the operation of the
roadway. Neither would be readily reversible.
Biodiversity impact
Habitat loss – this will occur during the early stages
of construction and will not be reversible.
Badger impact – expected to coincide with the
commencement of works on site and would be
temporary in nature.
Birdlife / otter - expected to coincide with the
commencement of works on site and would be
temporary in nature.
Landscape
Expected to coincide with the commencement of
works on site. Landscape alteration although slight
would be long-term and not reversibly. However
impact will naturally reduce over time. It is noted
that rock outcrops can also form a visual feature of
interest and that there may be opportunities to
expose rock towards the west of the proposed
scheme. new cuttings would provide new
information which would be a positive impact on
Geological Heritage
Cultural heritage
Impact expected to coincide with the
commencement of works on site.
(g) The cumulation of the
impact with the impact of
other existing and/or
approved projects.
Other road improvement works have occurred and
are planned for the Tralee to Fenit Roadway.
Cumulatively these will improve the transport
infrastructure and impact positively on the
population in the area. The scale of the works
would set precedent for similar projects on the
roadway. It is noted that the scale is based on Port
related traffic requirements.
(h) The possibility of
effectively reducing the
impact.
Population and human health impact
Standard traffic and construction management will
effectively reduce any such impacts.
Biodiversity
Standard environmental protection measures
including mammal underpass provision, landscaping
and fencing will effectively reduce impact.
Land / Landscape
Natural weathering and vegetation will effectively
reduce impact. New rock cuttings would provide
new information which would be a positive impact
on Geological Heritage. Opportunities for
interpretation of same (interpretative panels,
museum pieces etc).
Cultural heritage
Archaeological test excavations to be carried out in
greenfield areas in advance of construction. This is a
standard requirement.
4. Recommendation and conclusion
Having regard to the above, and in particular to the nature, scale and location of the
proposed project, by itself and in combination with other plans and projects, it is
considered that an EIA is not required in this instance.
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