Schedule of Environmental Commitments
All mitigation measures identified in this ES are necessary to protect the environment prior to and during construction, or during operation of the replacement bridge. These measures will be incorporated into the Contract Documents. This will provide a mechanism to ensure compliance with environmental commitments.
The purpose of the Schedule of Environmental Commitments is to collate mitigation measures identified throughout the ES, both for ease of reference and for use by those overseeing the Contract Documents. It is intended to provide a record of commitments that will be incorporated within the Contract Documents and to which the contractor will be obliged to adhere throughout the Contract period. It is, however, recognised that there may be a need to revise or supplement the commitments by agreement between the Contractor, the Scottish Government, the planning authority, SEPA, SNH, the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board and other interested parties as construction proceeds.
Table 11.1 to Table 11.11 provides a summary of the mitigation measures, which are detailed more fully in the relevant sections of this ES. Reference should be made to individual sections of the ES for further explanation. Specifically, the following has been incorporated:
- the mitigation measure;
- the effect of the mitigation on the impact;
- the timing of the mitigation measure;
- any monitoring requirements; and
- any additional consultation required.
Should the operating company and/or contractor propose significant changes or modifications to the proposed scheme assessed for this EIA, this would mean that the impacts could be different. In this case, appropriate mitigation will be designed and implemented. In such a situation, the operating company or contractor will be required to publish an addendum to the ES, within which appropriate impacts and mitigation measures will be laid out. This addendum will include a revised Schedule of Environmental Commitments to reflect any changes. The revised commitments will then be included in the contract documents. The final design will not give rise to impacts which are any worse than those described in this ES unless a subsequent addendum is issued for consultation.
Table 11.1 Pre-Construction General
Item 1
The contractor will be required to produce a site specific Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) prior to work commencing which will incorporate all the measures detailed within this schedule of environmental commitments, indicate the timing of the measures as well as detailing environmental responsibilities on site, environmental procedures including details of auditing of environmental commitments, providing environmental risk assessments and contingency plans to deal with spills and environmental incidents on site and method statements. The contractor will also produce a site waste management plan (SWMP) which will be incorporated into the CEMP. The SWMP will apply the waste hierarchy at all times whereby in order of preference waste should be prevented, minimised, re-used, recycled, used for energy recovery and only as a final option, disposed of at an appropriately licensed waste facility.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
This will clearly set out roles and responsibilities and detail how environmental commitments are incorporated into the work programme as well as providing clear procedures in the event of an incident which will serve to minimise the potential construction impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Prior, during and post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Sign off of CEMP by operating company prior to work commencing with regular (weekly) auditing by the ECoW.
Item 2
An ecological/environmental clerk of works (ECoW) will be employed on site by the contractor. The ECoW must be suitably experienced and appropriately qualified and accredited by an appropriate professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM). The ECoW will be responsible for monitoring and auditing the mitigation contained in this table and the contractor CEMP. It is expected that the ECoW will visit the site at least weekly throughout the course of the contract with audit reports being produced on each occasion and submitted to the operating company environment team. The ECoW will also undertake any necessary ecological surveys or ensure a specialist is engaged as required. Where the ECoW does not hold the required protected species licence or specialist knowledge for a specific mitigation measure, then a suitably qualified specialist with the appropriate licence or specialist knowledge must be engaged for that specific mitigation measure. These mitigation measures are to be identified prior to the start of construction to avoid delays in appointing a suitable specialist.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensure good environmental site practice and that the environmental commitments are undertaken on the ground.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Prior, during and post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Weekly auditing and reporting.
Surveys undertaken as required.
Table 11.2 Cultural Heritage (Chapter 5)
Item 3
The location for the site compound is to be agreed first with the operating company Environment Team.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To minimise the possibility of damage to cultural heritage assets (or other environmentally sensitive receptors) through a poorly chosen site.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
None.
Item 4
Protection zones to be established around existing cultural heritage assets as shown in Figure 5.8 of the ES. This should further extend to the former location of Lagganbane settlement and smiddy.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To prevent accidental damage to existing assets.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Integrity to be checked throughout the works by ECoW and daily by contractor.
Item 5
A metric survey, analytical recording and further photographic survey commensurate with a Level 3 (English heritage) Standing Building survey with a view to creating an accurate and comprehensive record of the historic masonry arch bridge. This information will be provided to Highland Council Archaeological Unit.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To ensure the existence of the bridge is recorded for future generations.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance to be confirmed by operating company environment team.
Item 6
A watching brief to be undertaken during demolition of the historic masonry arch bridge by an appropriately qualified archaeologist in order to record additional relevant information. This will require extending to the areas of Lagganbane smiddy and settlement should they also be impacted by the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To ensure archaeological evidence can be properly recorded.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance to be confirmed by operating company environment team.
Item 7
Stone to be reclaimed from the existing bridge and reused on site in the building/facing of the new bridge. Any remaining stone to be passed to the Highland Council (with suitable waste exemption in place) to provide material for repair of their historic bridges.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures new bridge blends into landscape and allows excess stone to be used elsewhere.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During / post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance to be checked by ECoW.
Item 8
Where unexpected archaeological finds are identified, the archaeologist undertaking the watching brief should be alerted immediately (or if not on site, the ECoW) and direction taken as to how to proceed.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures the site integrity can be maintained in an archaeological context and that potentially important assets are not destroyed.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance to be checked by ECoW who is to inform the operating company environment team of any unexpected finds if there is no archaeologist on site.
Table 11.3 Ecology and Nature Conservation (Chapter 6)
Item 9
Root protection zone, consisting of robust silt fencing, will be established to protect adjacent trees.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Prevent accidental damage to woodland during works.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Integrity to be checked throughout the works by ECoW and daily by contractor. These checks are to be recorded in the weekly reports from the ECoW to the operating company environment team.
Item 10
Consultation with SNH will be undertaken to ascertain whether it is advisable to transplant the two stands of juniper to an area out with the immediate works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Prevent loss of UKBAP priority species.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Condition to be monitored by ECoW throughout the works and reported weekly to operating company environment team. Contractor to water regularly during dry periods in accordance with guidance to be sought from Forestry Commission Scotland and/or SNH to aid establishment.
Item 11
Compensation planting will be carried out following the works with local provenance broadleaf trees. Trees to be protected from grazing/browsing by suitable biodegradable tree guards.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Provides compensation for loss of woodland as a result of works.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Post-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Contractor to monitor during the contract maintenance period. If the planting is unsuccessful, remedial measures are to be taken to bring the planting up to the standard specified.
Item 12
All personnel and sub-contractors on site will be briefed as to the environmentally sensitive nature of the habitats and species around the works. This will be achieved through inclusion in the mandatory site induction and regular toolbox talks.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Raises awareness within workforce and puts message across of importance of environmental measures.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During site induction and throughout construction period.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to check operative awareness of issues periodically and to report findings in the weekly report to the operating company environment team.
Item 13
A pre-construction otter survey will be carried out 2 weeks prior to the works commencing by experienced ecologists.
Other protected species surveys will be undertaken by appropriately qualified specialists prior to construction including freshwater pearl mussel, bats, pine marten, wildcat, badger, red squirrel, water vole, breeding birds and wood ants. These surveys must be sufficiently in advance of construction to allow for appropriate mitigation measures to be developed and licences to be obtained where necessary.
Further protected species surveys shall be carried out periodically during the works as considered necessary by the operating company environment team.
An otter survey shall be carried out at least monthly during construction either by the ECoW if appropriately qualified or by the operating company environment team.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To determine whether there is any increase or change in otter activity in the area and whether mitigation measures need to be enhanced or the licensing requirements have changed. In the case of the latter, SNH are to be informed and advice sought for appropriate action.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Operating company environment team.
Item 14
An otter licence will be obtained from SNH in advance of the works and any further licence conditions imposed will be fully complied with.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre, during and post construction,
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to ensure compliance with licence conditions and record this in the weekly reporting.
Item 15
A clearly signed protection zone will be established in the vicinity of all otter resting places which will extend to a distance of 30 m (where possible). This will be fenced off with orange semi-rigid barrier fencing (or similar) to keep the workforce out but not impede access for otters. The positioning of the fencing will be supervised by a suitably experienced ecologist.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
To minimise risk of disturbance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Integrity to be checked throughout the works by ECoW and daily by the contractor. Weekly ECoW report to be sent to operating company environment team.
Item 16
All persons on site to be made aware of the otter licence, mitigation measures in place and their obligations during the induction process and through communication from the site supervisor and use of otter information sheets and toolbox talks, which will be given to all members of the work force. Staff to remain vigilant for presence of otter throughout the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Raise awareness with workforce and ensure they are aware of licence conditions and their obligations.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to check operative awareness of issues periodically and report this in weekly reports.
Item 17
If otter are encountered, work must stop temporarily in the vicinity and the site supervisor informed who should take further advice from the ECoW.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensure disturbance to otter is minimised.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
None.
Item 18
Any temporary lighting required during the works will be directed away from the watercourse and the otter protection zone. Lighting will also be shielded and projected downwards to prevent disturbance to bats.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise disturbance to otters and bats.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to ensure compliance.
Item 19
Machinery will be checked at the start of each shift for the presence of resting otter and these checks will be recorded by the Contractor.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of injury to otters.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to ensure compliance.
Item 20
Excavations will be covered over or ramped at end of shift to avoid otters (and other animals) falling into them and becoming trapped or injured.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of injury to otters.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to check compliance.
Item 21
Further summer and winter bat surveys will be undertaken by a licensed bat worker prior to construction. A licence to destroy the existing bat roosts will be obtained from SNH prior to work commencing.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures legal compliance and avoids harm to bats.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction for application, monitoring during and post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to confirm compliance with licence conditions.
Item 22
Durable woodcrete type bat boxes (including hibernation box) will be erected in the vicinity of bridge prior to construction. Numbers, types and locations will be agreed with SNH during the licence application process.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures alternative roost site available for bats.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction, monitored post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Erection of bat boxes supervised by ECoW.
Effectiveness will be monitored post construction by operating company environment team by arranging appropriate surveys for a period of at least five years following completion of the works. If not effective, then discussions must be held with SNH to adapt the mitigation or develop further mitigation measures to seek to improve the results.
Item 23
The works affecting bat roosts will be time limited - destruction of the bridges will be undertaken during either early summer (April-May) or late summer (August-September) and before the winter hibernation period (historic masonry arch bridge only) unless otherwise agreed with SNH.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Limit disturbance of bats to least critical periods.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction planning.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to confirm to operating company environment team that works programme complies.
Item 24
One way excluder devices to be fitted to the roost entrances to allow the bats to leave the roost but not allow them back into the roost prior to demolition.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures the safe exclusion of bats from the roost.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Undertaken by licensed bat worker and overseen by ECoW.
Item 25
The effectiveness of the one way excluders will be established after the devices have been in situ for at least seven days of good foraging weather, by carrying out a dusk and dawn activity survey and confirmed by endoscope survey.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Safe exclusion of bats from the roost.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
To be confirmed to operating company environment team by ECoW / licensed bat worker.
Item 26
Demolition work will not commence until it has been confirmed by a licensed bat worker that the bats are no longer present in the roost.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Safe exclusion of bats from the roost.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
To be confirmed to operating company environment team by ECoW / licensed bat worker.
Item 27
A bat toolbox talk will be provided to all staff prior to construction.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Raises awareness in case bats are unexpectedly found.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to occasionally assess workforce knowledge and give toolbox talk again where required.
Item 28
Should bats be observed during demolition, work will stop and advice will be obtained from a bat specialist before works are allowed to continue.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Bats not inadvertently harmed.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Any instance of bats being observed should be reported to the ECoW immediately.
Item 29
A full crash deck will be erected during the demolition of the existing bridges to prevent debris entering the watercourses.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Provides protection for Allt Lagain Bhain and aquatic species.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction, erected prior to commencement of demolition.
Monitoring Requirements
Checked for regularly for effectiveness by ECoW.
Item 30
A freshwater pearl mussel survey will be carried out prior to construction by a licensed specialist. The realignment of Allt Lagain Bhain will be carried out “in the dry” using a methodology agreed by SEPA and will be undertaken outwith the fish spawning season (15th October to 31st May inclusive).
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise disturbance to fish population as well as FWPM in the wider catchment which depend on juvenile salmonids.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Programming pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW to confirm seasonal restrictions are adhered to.
Item 31
Silt fencing will be installed along the banks of the Allt Lagain Bhain within the works area and regularly checked and maintained for the duration of the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of silt and suspended matter entering the watercourse thereby providing protection for aquatic life downstream.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Set up prior to construction and maintained throughout construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Integrity to be checked daily by contractor, silt fences to be cleaned out regularly and any breaches or damage to be repaired immediately.
ECoW to check compliance.
Item 32
A preconstruction survey will be undertaken for pine marten den sites. Should any new dens be found, an exclusion zone of at least 30 m (where possible) will be established to minimise the risk of disturbance. Where necessary, advice will be taken from SNH and further mitigation developed.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of inadvertently disturbing pine marten.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Operating Company Environment Team will undertake preconstruction survey.
ECoW may require to conduct further surveys during construction.
Item 33
Electro-fishing to be carried out to safely remove fish prior to channel realignment and in channel works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises the impact on fish.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre or during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Specialist contractor will undertake work immediately prior to works in water / dewatering / channel diversion.
Item 34
The bed of the channel will not have a hydraulic drop either upstream or downstream of the new bridge and no obstacle to in channel fish migration to be created.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises the impact on fish.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During design, construction and post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Contractor and ECoW to ensure compliance.
Item 35
A badger protection plan will be produced prior to construction. A preconstruction survey will be undertaken for badgers. If any new setts are identified within 30 m of the works then a badger protection plan will be establised in consultation with SNH and a licence to disturb badger obtained prior to work commencing.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of inadvertently disturbing badgers.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Licensed badger specialist will produce a badger protection plan. Operating company environment team will undertake preconstruction survey.
ECoW may require to conduct further surveys during construction.
Item 36
No works will be undertaken within 30 m of a sett during the badger breeding season (December to June). NOTE: No setts within 30 m of the works have been discovered.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of disturbance during construction and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre/ During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 37
The fencing erected to protect the woodland surrounding the proposed scheme (see item 9) will serve to also form an exclusion area to protect badgers.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of disturbance during construction and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 38
A badger toolbox talk will be provided to all staff.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Raises awares with site staff and reduces the risk of accidental disturbance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
To be provided by ECoW.
Item 39
Site clearance work will be undertaken out with the bird breeding season (March to September) inclusive. Where this is unavoidable a survey will first be undertaken for breeding birds by a suitably qualified ecologist.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of disturbance during construction and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW and where required ECoW will also undertake surveys or bring in specialist.
Item 40
At least three breeding bird surveys will be undertaken prior to construction. If any signs of bird breeding are encountered on site then work will stop in the immediate area and an exclusion zone of a minimum of 10 m erected until the young have fledged.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of disturbance during construction and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 41
A breeding bird toolbox talk will be provided to all site staff.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Raises awares with site staff and reduces the risk of accidental disturbance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
To be provided by ECoW.
Item 42
A preconstruction survey for wood ants will be undertaken. If nests are found within the working area then where possible an exclusion zone will be erected around nests to prevent damage during the works. Where this is not feasible, the nests will be first translocated out with the works area.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of disturbance during construction and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Operating company environment team to undertake survey or arrange survey by suitably qualified specialist. If translocation is required, this must be undertaken by a suitably skilled contractor and supervised by the ECoW.
Table 11.4 Landscape Effects (Chapter 7)
Item 43
The design will seek to minimise the footprint of the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises habitat loss.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by resident engineer.
Item 44
Surface turf and topsoil will be carefully stripped and stored separately for the duration of the works and utilised for site reinstatement.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises the need to import material.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre and during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 45
Areas required for site compound and temporary bridge will be restored with landforms that fit in with the contours of the surrounding landscape. This principle will also be applied to the general landscaping of the site following completion of the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises landscape impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During / Post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 46
As far as practicable, site won topsoil will be used for landscaping to ensure the re-establishment of the ground flora.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures re-establishment of local flora and minimises the risk of importing non-native invasive species.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During / Post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 47
Existing masonry will be used to face the new parapets to soften the impact.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises landscape impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During / Post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 48
Woodland areas that are removed will be replanted using native species of local provenance. This will also be carried out in a pattern that mimics that of naturally regenerating seedlings and not in a linear manner.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises impact on woodland.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 49
An appropriate seed mix will be applied to introduce ground cover and minimise the effect of unwanted pioneer species. The seed mix will be an EW1 Woodland mix (or similar) applied at sowing rate of 30kg/ha.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Assists in the re-establishment of woodland.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Post construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Table 11.5 Road Drainage and the Water Environment (Chapter 8)
Item 50
The contractor will be required to implement measures to control runoff from the site working area and ensure an effective silt management plan is in operation for the duration of the works.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the impact on the water environment.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design / during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 51
Where flows are diverted or over-pumped, the risk of scour will be reduced through scour protection or controlling flows to avoid bed and bank erosion.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise impact on fluvial geomorphology.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW. A fluvial geomorphologist is to advise the ECoW prior to this aspect of the works or a fluvial geomorphologist is to be on site during this activity.
Item 52
Avoid unnecessary disturbance of the watercourse bed.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise impact on fluvial geomorphology.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 53
Retain as much of the bank side vegetation as practicable.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Reduce risk of scour and help to reduce ingress of suspended sediment from site runoff.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 54
Ensure compliance with the conditions of the SEPA CAR licence.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures legal compliance and minimises potential impact on water environment.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW. Where specific conditions of the CAR licence require specialist knowledge (e.g. fluvial geomorphology), the ECoW shall take advice from an appropriate specialist. If necessary to ensure compliance, the ECoW shall request that an appropriately qualified specialist visits the site to confirm compliance with specific conditions.
Item 55
The contractor will be required to implement measures to avoid pollution to Allt Lagain Bhain, River Moriston and the small un-named burn and will be required to comply with relevant SEPA Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPGs), in particular:
PPG 4: Treatment and disposal of sewage where no foul sewer exists.
PPG 5: Works and maintenance in or near water. (or SEPA pollution control guidance that replaces this PPG)
PPG 6: Working at construction and demolition sites.
PPG 8: Safe storage and disposal of used oils.
PPG 22: Incident response – dealing with spills.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 56
CIRIA good practice measures to be adhered to at all times (see CIRIA C648 (2006a) and C649 (2006b)).
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During design and construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 57
The contractor will be required to prepare method statement(s) for prior approval by SEPA for works activities that could affect watercourses.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 58
Where feasible keep a buffer of vegetation alongside the banks of the burn. Vegetation (or anything else) must not be disposed of in the channel.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 59
Refueling on site to be undertaken on an impermeable surface within an impermeably bunded secure area. Drip trays must be used and maintained to avoid overflow and any contaminated water disposed of off-site at an appropriately licensed disposal facility. The drip trays must have a capacity of 110% of the fuel tank supplying the static plant or equipment.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW confirming with contractor.
Item 60
All site vehicles and plant must be appropriately maintained according to relevant legislation.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW confirming with contractor.
Item 61
No vehicles or plant to access the Allt Lagain Bhain (or any other) watercourse unless absolutely necessary and any access will be agreed first with the ECoW.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 62
Works within the burn must be undertaken outside the salmonid fish spawning season, i.e. in-stream works can only be undertaken from 1st June to 14th October unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of impact to salmonid fish populations.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 63
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) to be incorporated into design of bridge and road tie ins which will help reduce suspended solids and removal of a proportion of dissolved metals within the road drainage system prior to discharge.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of water pollution and ensure legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design, implemented during construction. Operation phase SUDS must not be clogged or contaminated with muddy or dirty water from construction site.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW. If necessary to ensure compliance, the ECoW shall request that an appropriately qualified specialist visits the site to confirm compliance with specific conditions.
Item 64
During installation of the temporary bridge, the work must be carried out as far as practicable using methods to avoid damage to the banks of the burn and avoiding in-channel working.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise hydromorphological impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 65
The concrete works must be carried out in the dry to avoid contact of uncured concrete or unset waterproofing with the burn water. When constructing the realigned section of channel which must be carried out in the dry, vegetation should be allowed to colonise the banks of the new channel to help stabilise the bare earth. If this is not practicable, the banks should be stabilised with biodegradable materials such as coir matting. The bed of the new channel to be formed using bed material from the abandoned section of the existing channel (or similar) and to be placed loosely. The transfer of bed material will be undertaken outside the salmonid fish spawning season. Following construction of the new realigned channel, the watercourse should be allowed to gradually flow into the new channel to avoid scour of the new channel and prevent mobilisation of large amounts of sediment.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimimse the impact on hydromorphology and water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 66
Water quality of Allt Lagain Bhain, the unnamed watercourse and the River Moriston (near the confluence with Allt Lagain Bhain) will be monitored upstream and downstream of the works though daily visual inspections to observe and record whether any oil, construction debris or increased turbidity is present. The visual inspections will be assisted with the use of a portable meter to measure turbidity, pH and conductivity on a weekly basis. In the event of observation of oil, construction debris or noticeably increased levels of turbidity downstream compared with upstream, SEPA must be informed as soon as is practicable and within 24 hours. Suitable actions must be taken immediately to determine the cause of the problem and to rectify the situation.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 67
Prior to construction, chemical water quality sampling to be undertaken of Allt Lagain Bhain, the small watercourse and the River Moriston to provide an indication of baseline conditions. During the full construction period, chemical water quality monitoring will be undertaken of Allt Lagain Bhain, the River Moriston and the small unnamed watercourse on a fortnightly basis or as otherwise agreed with SEPA. Samples will be sent to a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) laboratory and the parameters analysed are to include suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, temperature, copper (dissolved and total), zinc (dissolved and total), pH, ammonia, conductivity, turbidity and total petroleum hydrocarbons or as otherwise agreed with SEPA. The detection limits must be sufficiently low to determine whether compliance with Environmental Quality Standards (EQSs) is being achieved. If any samples show that an EQS for a parameter has been exceeded, SEPA must be informed and suitable actions taken to investigate and rectify the situation if it is due to the proposed scheme construction works. Water quality sampling to be undertaken post construction on at least four occasions for at least 12 months following completion of construction or as agreed with SEPA.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Prior to, during and after construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Operating Company to carry out prior and post construction water quality sampling.
During construction, compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 68
Biological (macro-invertebrate) water quality monitoring is to be undertaken prior to the works commencing, on at least two occasions (preferably between April and September inclusive) and following construction in order to determine the long-term pollution status of the site prior to, during and post construction. A sample is to be taken upstream of the works and one downstream on each occasion in order to allow comparison.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Prior to and after construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 69
Materials will be stored securely at least 10 m distant from watercourses in accordance and in line with current best practice guidelines. Soil stockpiles will be stored at least 10 m from any watercourse.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise risk of water pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 70
The new structure will be designed to convey flows from a 1 in 200 year flood event plus 20% to allow for climate change.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures infrastructure can cope with flood events and allows for climate change.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance confirmed by engineer’s representative.
Item 71
The new structure is to have a submerged invert to encourage the formation of a naturalised bed under the road and will have no steps in the bed or other potential obstacles to migratory fish. The concrete channel must also have a naturalised bed.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the ecological impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design, implemented during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 72
Consideration to be given for the use of green bank protection immediately upstream and downstream of the hard engineered scour protection in order to merge the engineered bank into the natural bank. A fluvial geomorphologist is to be engaged to advise on design including scour protection measures.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimimse the impact on hydromorphology.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance confirmed by engineer’s representative.
Item 73
Where clearance is required to accommodate the site compound in an area out with the scope of this assessment, further environmental assessment, including ecological surveys, will be undertaken prior to site clearance.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the environmental impact when creating site compound.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Survey and assessment to be undertaken by ECoW or competent ecologist appointed by ECoW.
Table 11.6 Community Engagement
Item 74
Full consultation to be undertaken with local community including Fort Augustus Glenmoriston Community Council prior to works commencing.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Issues that may affect local community can be raised and addressed as far as practicable.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Design / preconstruction.
Monitoring Requirements
Scheme designer.
Item 75
Provide “Being a good neighbour” toolbox talk (or similar). To encompass issues such as site parking, noise on site, radios and offensive language.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures awareness of sensitivities relating to working within local community can be passed on effectively to the work force.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
ECoW.
Table 11.7 General Housekeeping
Item 76
Road surface to be swept regularly and wheel washes to be used as required.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures dust is kept to a minimum.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 77
All material coming to site and waste leaving site to be covered where practicable.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Cuts down debris within and around site.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 78
Exposed earth to be wetted where required to keep down dust. Any material stockpiles which could be affected by wind blow to be covered or wind break used while being kept on site.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise dust generation.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 79
Ensure site is kept as tidy as possible during works and any litter is picked up regularly.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises the risk of wind-blown debris leaving the site.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 80
Ensure the site is secure and vandal proof when not operational.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises the risk of environmental incidents due to vandalism.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 81
Spill kits to be available at designated areas on site and within plant/vehicles and staff trained in their use.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures any accidental spills can be cleaned up effectively.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 82
A daily visual dust monitoring regime to be implemented, noting also weather and construction activities (location and duration on site).
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimise the risk of air quality incidents.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Table 11.8 Waste
Item 83
Strictly no burning of waste on site.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises risk of air pollution and ensures legal compliance.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 84
All waste receptacles, skips and bins etc. to be covered.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises risk of wind-blown litter.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 85
Site waste to be segregated and kept in a clearly labelled designated area and where it is not being re-used on site, it is to be recycled under relevant SEPA exemption or disposed of safely and legally with waste transfer notes being kept as a record.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Ensures compliance with waste legislation and Duty of Care.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Table 11.9 Noise and Air Quality
Item 86
Drop heights from vehicles to be minimised.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises risk of air pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 87
Vehicles and plant to be regularly serviced and comply with emission standards. All plant and vehicles to be turned off when not in use.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises risk of air pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW confirming with contractor.
Item 88
Work to take place during normal daytime construction hours avoiding Sundays and public holidays. Any variation to this may require the contractor to produce a document demonstrating “best practicable means” in relation to minimising noise.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises noise impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW. If “best practicable means” document is needed, the ECoW is to inform the operating company environment team which will then arrange for a suitably qualified specialist to produce the “best practicable means” document in liaison with the contractor and Highland Council Environmental Health Officer.
Item 89
Reversing on site to be minimised and site vehicles to be fitted with broadband “white noise” type reversing alarms if health and safety requirements allow.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises noise impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 90
Plant to be operated in the mode that minimises noise emissions and where appropriate, fitted with appropriate noise control equipment such as jackets, hoods, shrouds, doors, silencers etc.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises noise impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW confirming with contractor.
Item 91
All material handling to be carried out in a way that minimises noise.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises noise impact.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 92
Battery powered generators to be used in preference to diesel powered and especially for traffic management.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises noise and potential for pollution.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
During construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW confirming with contractor.
Table 11.10 Traffic Management
Item 93
A traffic management plan will be developed and implemented by the contractor and will take into account the needs of both vehicle and non-vehicular travellers.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Minimises disruption to road users.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction, implemented during construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by ECoW.
Item 94
Press releases will be used and media informed in order to raise awareness with the travelling public.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Allows road users to plan for possible delays.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Compliance checked by operating company environment team.
Table 11.11 Cumulative Effects
Item 95
Consideration should be given to avoiding construction of A887 Allt na h-Innse Beag scheme at the same time as the proposed scheme.
Effect of Mitigation on Impact
Would reduce the risk of cumulative construction impacts from the A887 Allt na h-Innse Beag scheme and the proposed scheme.
Timing of Mitigation Measure
Pre-construction and construction.
Monitoring Requirements
Operating company engineering team to discuss with operating company environment team and with Transport Scotland.