Assessment of cumulative effects

The proposed works are not anticipated to result in significant environmental effects. Due to the nature of the proposed works, no cumulative effects are anticipated with any other developments in the vicinity.

A search of the Scottish Road Works Commissioner’s website (map search) has identified that BEAR Scotland will potentially be undertaking cyclic maintenance works on the M9 Junction 5 Onslip and the M9 Junction 4 Offslip during the barrier works. However, works will be for limited durations and will not extend the full period of the barrier works. Furthermore, they will both involve short diversions and will be unlikely to result in cumulative impacts with the M9 J4 to J5 Crossover VRS scheme.

In addition, a search using Falkirk Council Planning - Map Search identified four moderately sized planning applications within 300m of the scheme extents within the last two years:

  • P/25/0283/FUL, awaiting decision – Construction of 37 dwellings, new access and associated works along with partial demolition and alterations to existing dwellings. – located approx. 285m southeast of the scheme.
  • P/24/0226/COND02, unknown – Compliance with Condition 4 of P/24/0226/MSC – Approval of conditions (site wide earthworks, burn restoration, access, demolition and associated enabling works. – located approx.60m south of the scheme.
  • P/26/0196/MSC, awaiting decision – Approval of conditions for the construction of 49 dwellinghouses, roads, drainage, landscaping and associated works – located approx. 260m south of the scheme.
  • P/20/0617/COND01, conditions discharged – compliance with condition for the construction of six dwellinghouses. – located approx. 105m south of the scheme.

In addition, there are approx. 13 small planning applications within 300m which relate to minor alterations to existing dwellings i.e. roof alterations, conversion of garages, installation of air source heat pump etc.

While it is not possible to know the exact timings for the above planning applications, given that the works will be restricted to the M9 carriageway and undertaken on a rolling programme therefore during off peak hours, it is unlikely that the proposed works will have a significant cumulative effect with any other future works in the area.