Description of main environmental impacts and proposed mitigation

Air Quality

Impacts

On‑site construction activities, including surface preparation works and the operation of mobile plant and machinery, have the potential to generate airborne particulate matter and emissions. During the construction phase, there may therefore be a temporary increase in dust and exhaust emissions, which could result in a minor, short‑term deterioration in local air quality.
The implementation of traffic management (TM) during the scheme may result in a temporary increase in vehicle emissions due to idling and congestion. There is also potential for traffic diversion to cause minor impacts elsewhere; however, these are expected to be negligible given that works will occur at night when traffic volumes are significantly reduced. No permanent changes to air quality are anticipated.
No likely significant effects are anticipated due to the nature and scale of the works. All air quality effects will be temporary, limited to the construction phase and localised.

Mitigation

Best practice and measures as outlined in the ‘Guidance on the assessment of dust from demolition and construction (January 2024)’ published by the Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM), which includes the following mitigation relevant to this scheme will be followed:

The site layout will be planned (including plant, vehicles and Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM)) so that machinery and dust causing activities are located away from receptors, as far as reasonably practicable;
Materials with the potential to generate dust will be removed from site as soon as practicable unless being reused on site, with stockpiles covered or fenced as appropriate to prevent wind entrainment.
Cutting, grinding and sawing activities will be undertaken using equipment fitted with suitable dust suppression measures, such as water sprays or local exhaust ventilation systems.
Drop heights from conveyors and other loading or handling equipment will be minimised where practicable.
Vehicles entering and leaving the work area will be covered to prevent the escape of materials during transport.
Equipment suitable for cleaning dry spillages will be available on site, and any spillages would be cleaned up as soon as reasonably practicable using wet cleaning methods.
When not in use, plant, vehicles and NRMMs will be switched off and there will be no idling vehicles.
Plant, vehicles and NRMM will be regularly maintained, paying attention to the integrity of exhaust systems to ensure such fuel operated equipment is not generating excessive fumes.

The following additional mitigation measures will be implemented:

Green driving techniques will be adopted, and effective route preparation and planning will be undertaken prior to works.
Where possible, materials will be sourced locally.
Surfaces will be swept where loose material remains following planing.

No significant effects are anticipated upon completion of the works and no further assessment in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 105: Air Quality is required.

Cultural Heritage

Impacts

The resurfacing works are like-for-like and construction of the A76 is likely to have removed any archaeological remains that may have been present within the trunk road boundary. Therefore, the presence of unknown archaeological remains in the study area has been assessed as low.
The verge works will not impact any of the non-designated assets highlighted above.

Mitigation

If any archaeological finds, such as coins or pottery, are discovered during the works, they will not be removed from the site. Any such discoveries will be reported immediately to the appropriate authority.

In accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 106: Cultural Heritage Assessment, no further assessment is required.

Landscape and Visual Effects

Impacts

The works will result in temporary changes to the surrounding landscape, primarily due to the implementation of short-term traffic management measures and the presence of plant and machinery during construction.
Due to night-time programming, construction site lighting during night-time hours could cause disturbance for residential properties in close proximity.
Given the scheme’s location within a landscape characterised by Rectilinear Fields and Farms, construction activities will be noticeable but not out of character, resulting in a temporary increase in visual disturbance.

Mitigation

The works have been designed to minimise landscape and visual impacts by retaining the existing form, appearance, and materials of the A76 carriageway and its immediate surroundings where practicable.
Temporary site lighting used throughout the scheme will be minimised and directional and pointed only at the area of works.
All areas impacted by the works will be fully reinstated to their original condition, ensuring no long-term visual effects on the surrounding landscape.
Plant/machinery/materials will be stored in unobtrusive areas when not in use and will not be stored on grass verges.

In accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 107: Landscape and Visual Effects, no further assessment is required.

Biodiversity

Impacts

During nighttime programming, misdirected site lighting from construction activities could cause disturbance to any commuting protected species.
Site activities may temporarily impact local biodiversity due to increased vehicle presence, potential disturbance to protected species, and the risk of habitat pollution.
The proposed works may have a negative impact on birds that are nesting if vegetation clearance or tree cutback is required during the nesting bird season (March to August inclusive). There is potential for nesting birds to be disturbed by an increase in noise pollution.
Verge works have the potential to facilitate the spread of target species, such as rosebay willowherb (Chamaenerion angustifolium) and common ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) and INNS such as Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) in the absence of mitigation.
There is potential for pollution impacts on aquatic habitats and hydrologically connected designated sites, including the Upper Solway Flats and Marshes Ramsar Site, Solway Firth SAC and Solway Firth SPA, through existing hydrological pathways.
Vegetation clearance may negatively impact reptile species and their habitats in the absence of mitigation.

Mitigation

Due to nighttime programming, any artificial lighting required will be hooded and directed specifically at the work area to minimise light spill and disturbance to nocturnal species, including those near ecological receptors such as dense woodland. In the event that any protected species are encountered during the works, all activity will cease immediately to allow the species to pass by.
On site light sources will be kept to a minimum and only be used as required.
When not in use, light sources will be switched off to reduce impact on nocturnal species.
‘Soft start’ techniques will be utilised with noise heavy equipment/plant/machinery in order to avoid disturbance to any potential noise sensitive species present in the area.
In the unlikely event that a protected species is noticed on site, works will be temporarily suspended until the animal has moved on.
Vehicles and materials will not be stored or parked on grass verges where possible. Where damage occurs, the reinstatement of the grass verge will be carried out.
As part of the NMC, Amey, on behalf of transport Scotland, has been asked to keep a record of various target species. Works will not cause the spread of this species, if works are likely to result in the spread of this species through disturbance, the landscaping team will be consulted.
If the works are within the main bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) then a suitably qualified/experienced ecologist will be required to carry out a bird nest check before works can proceed during bird nesting season. Bird nest checks will be undertaken within 48 hours prior to any vegetation clearance works taking place. If works are delayed such that more than 48 hours has passed since the nesting bird check took place, then an update nesting bird check will be required. If any active nests are identified, then a 5m buffer (or as defined by the site ecologist, depending on the species present and site conditions) will be set around the nest and vegetation clearance works stopped within this buffer until an ecologist has determined that the nest has become inactive (which may take up to six weeks depending on the bird species present).
Where equipment can be used with hoods, doors or sleeves to reduce noise levels, these will be used wherever possible.
Open excavations will be fenced off and/or covered to avoid animals becoming trapped or injured. A mammal ladder (e.g. wooden plank) will be erected to allow any animals that may become trapped to escape. All excavations will be checked each morning to ensure no animals have become trapped overnight and an ecologist contacted for advice should any animals be encountered.
Consideration will be given to where spoil is stored, mammal proof fencing will be considered if spoil is to be stored on site for long periods of time.
No equipment will be stored within suitable habitat for protected species.
Works within 5m of cherry laurel and 7m of Himalayan balsam will be avoided. Where works cannot avoid this, an INNS method statement will be required to ensure these species are not spread further within or outside of the proposed works area.
As the works have hydrological connectivity to the designated sites, a Stage 1 Habitats Regulations Appraisal was required prior to construction activities to determine Likely Significant Effects (LSE). This concluded that no likely significant effects on the European Sites have been identified. The proposed works are confined to the existing carriageway, with negligible impacts on qualifying species, habitats and environmental quality overall.

On the condition that the above mitigation measures and best practice are adhered to, the residual effect on Biodiversity is considered not significant.

Therefore, in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 108: Biodiversity, no further assessment is required.

Geology and Soils

Impacts

Resurfacing works will be confined to the existing carriageway boundary and previously engineered layers. As such, it has been determined that these works pose no risk of direct or indirect impacts to underlying geology or soils.
The verge works may result in minor soil disturbance, which can create adverse conditions, including erosion and polluted soils.
The generation of concrete dust can raise the pH of soil resulting in erosion and soil infertility.

Mitigation

Vehicles and materials will not be stored or parked on grass verges where possible. Where damage occurs, the reinstatement of the grass verge will be carried out.
Excavation of soils will be kept to a minimum and only where necessary, with any excavated soils being re-used on site as far as reasonably practicable. 
Excavated soils if stored on site will be appropriately contained/covered and protected from the elements. 
Spill kits will be present on site and all operatives will be fully trained in their use. Any fuels or chemicals required for use will be stored securely with drip trays used appropriately and stored under any chemical or fuel containers. 
If any unusual odours or soil colourations are identified during the works, the works will cease, and the environmental team will be notified.

On the condition that the above mitigation measures and best practice are adhered to, the residual effect on geology and soils is considered not significant.

Therefore, in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 109: Geology and Soils, no further assessment is required.

Material Assets and Waste

Impacts

Transportation and recovery of materials or waste will require energy deriving from fossil fuel, a non-renewable source. Fossil fuels are finite resources, and their extensive use for energy-intensive processes like transportation accelerates their depletion.
The design life for the TS2010 surfacing proposed is estimated to be 20 years. This will reduce the requirement for maintenance to this section of road over the period, which will reduce the need for further materials and wastes.
Use of TS2010 will reduce the usage of imported aggregates and increase the use of a wider range of sustainable aggregate sources thus reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
The use of TS2010 Surface Course will prolong the period before future resurfacing is required, compared to other types of road surface. Future repairs can be able to be carried out easily via inlay
The works will result in contribution to resource depletion through use of virgin materials
Non-recycled construction waste often ends up in landfills. Without recycling, the demand for virgin materials increases, putting pressure on natural reserves.
Coal tar was found within coring investigations which will be treated as special waste.

Mitigation

In accordance with the Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations (EASR), uncontaminated asphalt road planings arising from the works are classified as a Low-Risk Waste Activity (LRWA) under ‘LRWA 3 - Treating asphalt road planings in a milling machine’. However, site investigations identified the presence of asphalt waste containing coal tar (AWCCT) within sections of the carriageway. Any uncontaminated asphalt planings generated during the works will be recycled in accordance with SEPA guidance and will not require environmental authorisation. Material identified as AWCCT will be segregated from uncontaminated arisings and managed in accordance with the relevant waste management and duty of care requirements. The final management route for the AWCCT will be determined by its classification and acceptance criteria at an appropriately licensed treatment, recovery or disposal facility.
Warm-mix asphalt (WMA) will be used for the resurfacing works. Where practical, all materials will comply with Transport Scotland’s amendment to the Specification for Highway Works, Clause 908TS Warm Mix Asphalt, which sets out performance requirements for WMA mixtures. WMA requires less heat, reducing energy use, making it more environmentally friendly in comparison to hot mix asphalt.
All special waste will be transported by a suitable licenced contractor and will be accompanied by correctly completed special waste consignment note (SWCN) providing information about the waste source, hazardous properties and disposal/treatment facility. The SWCN will be retained for three years with the Site Responsible Manager is responsible for ensuring these are retained on site. Special waste will be segregated with general waste and other recyclables.
The management route for AWCCT will be determined by the Contractor in accordance with SEPA requirements, taking account of the waste classification, suitability for treatment and recycling, and any notification or approval requirements associated with its proposed reuse or disposal.
All waste leaving the site will be removed from site by a licenced waste carrier. All waste documentation will be provided when requested.
Materials will be derived from recycled, secondary or re-used origin as far as practicable within the design specifications to reduce natural resource depletion and associated emissions.
Where possible, materials will be obtained locally, and operatives deployed from the local depot where possible to reduce haulage and scheme associated journeys, reducing impact of associated Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions on climate change.
Where possible all materials will be reused throughout the network, if not possible they will be recycled locally.
The contractor will adhere to waste management legislation and ensure they comply with waste management Duty of Care.

It has been determined that the proposed project will not have direct or indirect significant effects on the consumption of material assets or creation of waste.

Therefore, in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 110: Material Assets and Waste, no further assessment is required.

Noise and Vibration

Impacts

Construction activities associated with the proposed works have the potential to cause noise and vibration impacts to nearby noise sensitive receptors, through the use of paver planers and roller wagons during nighttime hours.
TS2010 incorporates noise-reducing properties, which help to minimise traffic-related noise pollution, improving environmental conditions for nearby communities. Its advanced composition also provides better resistance to deformation and weathering, ensuring consistent performance under varying traffic loads and climatic conditions.
There may be a temporary increase in road traffic due to the TM in place. This could occur due to altered traffic flow, which may cause congestion and delays. Additionally, some vehicles may divert to alternative routes, potentially increasing traffic volumes elsewhere. However, these impacts are expected to be minimal given that the works will take place during night-time periods when overall traffic levels are significantly lower.
There are no anticipated impacts on noise and vibration following the completion of works.

Mitigation

Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Environmental Health Department has been notified of the works due to the nighttime programming.
A letter drop to all noise sensitive receptors located next to the scheme extents will be undertaken before any nightwork works commence.
The noisiest works (planing) will be completed before 23:00 where feasible.
A soft start to the works will be implemented, whereby plant/machinery is turned on sequentially as opposed to simultaneously.
Materials being dropped from height will be minimised.
Effects from noise will be kept to a minimum through the use of appropriate mufflers and silencers fitted to machinery. All exhaust silencers will be checked at regular intervals to ensure efficiency.
No plant, vehicles or machinery will be left idling when not in use.
Amey’s environmental briefing on Noise and Vibration will be delivered to all site operatives before works start.

With best practice mitigation measures in place, no significant effects are predicted on Noise and Vibration as the works will be transient.

Therefore, in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 111: Noise and Vibration no further assessment is required.

Population and Human Health

Impacts

Traffic Management (TM) may result in temporary disruption to road users, local residents and bus services, particularly along diversion routes, through increased congestion and travel times. As TM will only be implemented during nighttime hours, these effects are expected to be minimal and short-term. Temporary noise and vibration impacts may also occur in the vicinity of the works.
There will be no impact on land take from private land and/or community facilities as a result of the scheme.
Construction site lighting during nighttime hours could cause disturbance to residential properties in close proximity, and for the nearby amenity users.
Access to the local surrounding residential properties, and the farmers field may be impacted by TM.
The resurfacing works may provide minor indirect health benefits, including improved road surface quality, reduced vehicle noise from smoother surfacing, and improved road safety, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Verge works adjacent to the layby have the potential to temporarily affect layby users through the partial or full loss of access during construction activities.

Mitigation

A letterbox drop will be undertaken for properties within close proximity of the scheme, detailing construction activities due to nighttime programming
TM restrictions/arrangements and any expected travel delays will be publicised within the local and wider area, in an effort to minimise disturbance to vehicular travellers.
Access to the layby will be maintained where practicable. Where temporary closure or restricted access is required, appropriate advance warning signage will be installed to inform road users of the works and any alternative stopping locations.
Access to private property, including agricultural land, will be maintained throughout the duration of the works.
Access to residential properties within the 300 m study area will be maintained at all times, with no direct severance or restriction anticipated.

With best practice mitigation measures in place, no significant effects associated with Population and Human Health are predicted.

Therefore, in accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 112: Population and Human Health no further assessment is required.

Road Drainage and the Water Environment

Impacts

If not adequately controlled, debris and run off from the works could be suspended in the surface water. In the event of a flooding incident, this debris may be mobilised and could enter the road drainage having a detrimental effect on the surrounding local water environment.
Potential for spills, leaks or seepage of fuels and oils associated with plant to escape and reach drainage systems and watercourses if not controlled, which may negatively affect the distant water environment.
If flooding occurs, this may delay the scheduled works.
The works will have a long-term benefit to road users as other works such as gully maintenance and catchpit clearance are being undertaken to improve drainage.
No impact on groundwater is anticipated, as the works involve a like-for-like road surface replacement. There is no source–pathway–receptor linkage that could result in groundwater contamination or alteration.
Works within an NVZ may result in contamination of the road drainage network through the accidental release of sediments, fuels, oils and other pollutants, potentially affecting downstream water quality.

Mitigation

All debris which has the potential to be suspended in surface water and wash into the local water environment will be cleaned from the site following the works.
Debris and dust generated as a result of the works will be prevented from entering the drainage system. This can be via the use of drain covers or similar.
Concrete washout and washwater will be contained and disposed of appropriately, with no discharge permitted to road drainage systems, ditches or watercourses.
Appropriate measures will be implemented onsite to prevent any potential pollution to the natural water environment (e.g., debris, dust, and hazardous substances). This will include spill kits being present onsite at all times, and the use of funnels and drip trays when transferring fuel etc.
The control room will be contacted if any pollution incidences occur (available 24 hours, 7 days a week).
Visual pollution inspections of the working area will be conducted in frequency, especially during heavy rainfall and wind.
Weather reports will be monitored prior to and during all construction activities. In the event of adverse weather/flooding events, all activities will temporarily stop, and only reconvene when deemed safe to do so, and run-off/drainage can be adequately controlled to prevent pollution.
Prior to works commencing, all operatives will be briefed on SEPA’s Guidance for Pollution Prevention (GPP) documents (particularly GPP 1, GPP 2, GPP 5, GPP 6, GPP 8, GPP 21 and GPP 22).

Providing all works operate in accordance with current best practice, as demonstrated by SEPA’s GPPs, the residual effect on the local water environment during construction is considered to be not significant.

In accordance with DMRB Guidance document LA 113: Road Drainage and the Water Environment, no further assessment is required.

Climate

Impacts

GHG emissions will be generated through the use of machinery, vehicles, and materials (both recycled and virgin) required for the scheme, as well as through transportation to and from the site.
Warm Mix Asphalt is produced and compacted at temperatures 20–40°C lower than Hot Mix Asphalt. This reduces fuel consumption during heating, leading to 15–30% lower energy use and associated CO₂

Mitigation

Local suppliers will be used as far as reasonably practicable to reduce travel time and GHG emitted as part of the works.
Waste disposal will be directed to local licensed facilities.
Vehicles/plant will not be left on when not in use to minimise and prevent unnecessary emissions.
Further actions and considerations for this scheme are detailed in the above Material Assets and Waste section.

With best practice mitigation measures in place, no significant effects are anticipated on Climate. Therefore, in line with DMRB Guidance document LA 114: Climate, no further assessment is required.

< Previous | Contents | Next >